Citation

Jenkins, B. M. and G. Knutson, Energy balances in biomass handling systems: net energy analysis of electricity from straw. American Society of Agricultural Engineers, paper no. 84-3593, 1984.

Abstract

An analysis of a system to generate electricity from rice straw in a 25 MW power plant reveals a substantial input of fossil fuel energy to support the handling and conversion operations. Transforming the energy in one tonne of straw to 4,000 MJ of electricity requires an expenditure of 3,838 MJ of fossil fuel for engines, oil, manufacturing, repairs, labor, and replacement of nutrients. 65.5% of the fossil fuel input is invested in the power plant, while 24% is diesel fuel used in collection, transportation, comminution, and handling. The remaining 10.5% is for engine oil, manufacturing, repairs, labor, and replacement of nutrients. Solar energy input for field drying the straw is a critical input to the system.

Country, State, District, etc.

United States

Language

English

Material

rice straw

Use category

energy production