Integration of biofuel and DH production – Possibilities, potential and trade-off situations: A review

• In this study integration of biofuel and district heating production is discussed. The focus on economic aspects effects global GHG emissions. Trade-offs influencing are identified. A system approach required to evaluate profitability. There several barriers increased use in the transport sector (e.g., shortage feedstocks, high costs, relatively low energy yields from standalone plants). One possible solution (DH) production. This aims (1) identify challenges (e.g. trade-offs) related suggests ways dealing with these challenges, (2) highlight factors that may influence emissions integration, (3) which should be considered when evaluating integration. After conducting a systematic review using prescribed structured protocol, 38 articles were identified as relevant for study. These present four different approaches integration: delivering excess heat biorefineries DH networks, utilising processes, integrating existing facilities, building new polygeneration facilities systems (DHS). If investments compete combined power (CHP) production, electricity price premium paid renewable profitability CHP plants therefore even Competition also weighing environmental benefits (the emissions). can create trade-offs DHS’s operating conditions, limited local biomass availability, available sinks. To deal avoid suboptimization, stakeholders regional planning, investors policymakers cooperate. All studies noted comprehensive needed For instance, or residues process DHS requires consideration alternative fuels. one by-products considered. majority dealt performance Some found include sink, expected operation patterns, policy market conditions. potential reducing greenhouse gases (GHG) depends but availability users.