Are pyrolysis and gasification viable commercial alternatives to combustion for bioenergy projects?

摘要

Novel processes utilising pyrolysis and gasification have attracted publicity as a potential alternative to biomass combustion. Such systems offer some benefits in terms of energy efficiency, costs and public acceptance. A few flagship projects have received intensive public attention and substantial financing, however the technology is certainly not being adopted as widely as combustion. In this paper we explore the reasons for this. We summarise the current situation, both in the UK and overseas and identify the advantages and disadvantages of pyrolysis and gasification. We identify the factors that can constrain adoption of these novel technologies and analyse their impact as a basis for evaluating future trends. Our analysis has concluded that there is no single reason for these technologies not being adopted. Instead we point, in this paper, to a mix of economic, technical, commercial and policy factors that together have constrained take-up.