Biomass-Based CCHP System: Feasibility for Historic Buildings

This study analyzes a biomass combustion based polygeneration system integrated with a historical building from the 10th century “Sant’ Apollinare” located in Perugia, Italy. The integrated polygeneration system includes an externally fired gas turbine for electricity production, a biomass dryer, a series of heat exchangers to recover thermal energy from the exhaust gases to meet the understudy building’s energy requirements, and a bottoming cycle specifically an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC).The study assesses an energy perspective of the proposed polygeneration system. The analysis is carried out using two simulation software’s. The biomass combustion, drying and electrical energy generation systems are developed in Aspen Plus, whereas the remaining CCHP system is developed in TRNSYS simulation software. This study demonstrates the feasibility of a biomass-based CCHP system in a historic building, providing insights for various end-user’s applications. The system offers potential electrical and thermal energy for diverse applications, including hydrogen production from excess electricity. This research promotes sustainable energy solutions in heritage structures.