Dependence of Bio Energy Production on Chemical Composition and Crop Phenology of Biomass Feedstock

With an agriculture based economy and a highly dependent labor force, Pakistan can generate a significant amount of energy through utilization of its bioenergy resources. Moreover, with constantly increasing fuel prices, and the constant depletion of fossil fuels, the modern trend is rapidly shifting towards the renewables. Although the traditional use of biomass is significantly high (Viz. a health hazard and is not considered renewable), the use is considered renewable only if it does not compete with the food sector of country. To ensure such utilization, energy harvesting must be done in the most efficient way. This study reports the dependence of bioenergy production from crop residue (Wheat straw) and Oil seed (Jatropha) on crop yields, moisture content, and Oil content percentage. Bioenergy production from Wheat Straw and Jatropha is studied using Transport and Power Sector as the End use. Combustion Steam Turbine, Ethanol and Biodiesel Engine are used as conversion technologies. The results from the study shows the variation in energy generation potential due to difference in chemical properties and crop phonologies. Bio-IRENA Simulator is used to calculated the energy potential based on above mentioned drivers. Ethanol production from Wheat residue can vary from 200-1400 L/ha if the yield changes from 0.5-4 t/ha. The same variation results in electricity production ranging from 20-35 TWh. Similarly, the production can vary from 1000-700 L/ha when moisture content varies from 0-30 %.