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Electrification-enabled production of Fischer-Tropsch liquids – A process and economic perspective

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  • Mehrara, Mahsa
  • Mesfun, Sennai
  • Ahlström, Johan
  • Toffolo, Andrea
  • Wetterlund, Elisabeth

Abstract

Transitioning to biofuels is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in transportation, but limited biomass availability requires maximizing carbon efficiency. This study evaluates Fischer-Tropsch liquid (FTL) production from biomass, focusing on the impact of partial electrification and carbon capture and storage (CCS) on efficiency and flexibility. Five configurations—ranging from a biomass-intensive base case to a fully electrified process—are simulated and assessed through techno-economic and GHG evaluations under fluctuating energy prices. Full electrification achieves the highest carbon efficiency, increasing carbon-to-liquid fuel conversion from 37 % to 91 %, but faces challenges due to high electricity demand (up to 2.5 MWh per MWh of fuel) and reliance on low-carbon grids. Partial electrification offers a cost-effective alternative, reducing production costs by up to 40 % compared to fully electrified cases, while maintaining a carbon efficiency of around 60 %. CCS enables net-negative emissions, though its viability hinges on sufficiently strong carbon pricing incentives. Compliance with sustainability mandates, such as Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO) requirements, depends on access to decarbonized electricity. Overall, partially electrified BtL pathways enhance carbon utilization, reduce emissions, and offer resilience to market fluctuations. These pathways provide a promising balance of environmental and economic performance, outperforming both traditional BtL under high biomass prices and fully electrified e-fuels in terms of cost. Their advantages make them attractive from both investment and policy perspectives—especially in markets supported by stable electricity prices, carbon incentives, and sustainability-driven regulation.

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  • Mehrara, Mahsa & Mesfun, Sennai & Ahlström, Johan & Toffolo, Andrea & Wetterlund, Elisabeth, 2025. "Electrification-enabled production of Fischer-Tropsch liquids – A process and economic perspective," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 393(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:appene:v:393:y:2025:i:c:s030626192500813x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2025.126083
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