About Bio-FlexGen
The Bio-FlexGen project is driving a transformative approach in the renewable energy sector, deploying an advanced Combined Heat and Power (CHP) technology powered by digital optimisation to convert biomass residues into multiple energy outputs. This systemic solution is being developed and tested across various European regions, with a network of partners committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions. The project's core innovation includes a digital platform for optimising real-time energy production, thereby enabling renewable energy systems to be more efficient and adaptable. It aims to accelerate our transition to a sustainable energy economy by:
- transforming low-cost biomass residues into renewable energy with a high efficiency of 55% and 25MWe capacity;
- introducing a flexible CHP technology that adapts to produce electricity, heat, hydrogen, and CO₂;
- enhancing energy system flexibility with on-demand digital optimisation;
- addressing the scalability and economic viability of renewable CHP solutions.
Description of success
The Bio-FlexGen project marks a significant milestone by successfully developing and implementing its Hybrid Fluidised Bed (HFB) gasifier technology. This achievement represents a breakthrough in biomass energy conversion, enabling syngas to be produced very efficiently from biomass residues.
The project has overcome challenges such as integrating a diverse input of biomass and optimising gasification under a variety of pressures, to demonstrate the potential for scalable, flexible renewable energy systems. This success paves the way for broader adoption and further innovation in sustainable energy technologies.
Highlights
Bio-FlexGen’s highlights include:
- the introduction of its HFB gasifier, which combines the benefits of both Bubbling Fluidised Bed (BFB) and Circulating Fluidised Bed (CFB) technologies, to enhance the efficiency of biomass converted to syngas;
- the use of advanced digital tools for real-time optimisation of the energy production process, to ensure maximum efficiency and adaptability.
- digitalisation, which enables the gasifier to produce four different products (electricity, heat, hydrogen and/or CO₂) for the broader energy system or industrial applications;
- converting biomass residues into valuable energy, to significantly contribute to reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and advancing the transition to a sustainable energy economy.
Outputs
The HFB gasifier is a first of its kind, unique technology. It has been patented so that Bio-FlexGen and its partners have the opportunity to continue developing their advanced CHP technology.
Impact
The Bio-FlexGen project revolutionises the renewable energy landscape, transforming biomass into valuable energy resources with unprecedented efficiency. Its impact extends beyond energy production, developing a sustainable ecosystem by leveraging biomass residues, thus promoting environmental conservation and reducing carbon footprints. The project's innovative approach and technological advancements set new benchmarks for renewable energy solutions, contributing to the global effort towards a more sustainable and energy-secure future.
Lessons
BioFlexGen faced various challenges during the design and development stages of the project and of the HFB, ranging from technical difficulties to external factors such as price increases provoked by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. However, with teamwork and adaptability, the BioFlexGen team successfully navigated through all setbacks.
Other information
As the first of its kind, the HFB gasifier was given a name by the BioFlexGen team: Humphrey. You can watch a video for more information on Humphrey and how the technology works here.
