Conceptual design and performance analysis of a hybrid power generation plant integrating fluidized bed gasification, methanol production and tubular solid oxide fuel cell systems

The integration of the biomass gasification to solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system and methanol production presents a promising route for sustainable power generation. The primary objective of this study is to develop a hybrid power generation system integrating a torrefied hazelnut shell gasification system, high-temperature tubular SOFC, and methanol production system. Addressing the need for sustainable and efficient energy solutions, the study assesses the technical feasibility of the proposed configuration by investigating key operating parameters and integration strategies, aiming to identify optimal conditions to maximize energy efficiency and system performance. To achieve this, a thermodynamic equilibrium model is developed in Aspen Plus and validated against reliable data. Through detailed sensitivity analysis, the effects of parameters such as i) steam to biomass ratio (SBR), ii) gasification temperature, iii) SOFC anode temperature, iv) fuel utilization factor (U_f), v) current density (j), vi) steam to carbon ratio (STCR) and vii) methanol reactor parameters (pressure, temperature, and off-gas recycle ratio) are investigated to determine the optimal production conditions. The results indicate that the best performance is obtained under gasification conditions with a SBR of 1.2 at 800 °C. The SOFC system delivers 120 kW DC power with an efficiency of 42.1 % for a U_f of 0.85, a STCR of 2.5 and an anode temperature of 910 °C. Furthermore, the proposed integrated system provides a maximum methanol output of 0.648 kg/kg_feed and an AC efficiency up to 53.7 % for the SOFC system. This study anticipates accomplishing high efficiencies, rendering this system highly appealing.