An enhanced biomass gasification system for power generation

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The College of New Caledonia and Purden Lake and Ski Resorts are extending their partnership to research the development of a biomass gasifier for operating a 40 kW capacity power generator. This will utilize on-site biomass and therefore, offset high costs associated with diesel fuel consumption for electricity generation while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The project will provide important marketing and social benefits. This applied research study will bring innovative solutions to several technical and economic issues related to gasification systems and applications: (i) a low-cost gasifier in conjunction with a dual filtering system for easy operation and maintenance, (ii) enhancing combustion and engine efficiency through syngas conditioning and (iii) completing the economic feasibility study with an environmental life cycle assessment and carbon footprint analysis. This project is a unique opportunity for CNC to enhance its applied research capability in the field of renewable energy with focus on biomass substitution for fossil fuels used for heat and electricity generation. Students and Faculty will be directly involved in designing, developing and implementing the system. Several enhanced technical skills are expected as learning outcomes from student participation in this project: (i) designing gasification systems for electricity generation, (ii) assessing biomass resource quality through testing its physicochemical attributes, (iii) evaluating economic feasibility of gasification systems in remote communities, (iv) conducting a life cycle assessment for determining environmental impacts associated to substituting diesel with syngas for electricity generation.