Modeling of a Biomass-Based Energy Production Case Study Using Flexible Inputs with the P-Graph Framework

In this work, a modeling technique utilizing the P-Graph framework was used for a case study involving biomass-based local energy production. In recent years, distributed energy systems gained attention. These systems aim to satisfy energy supply demands, support the local economy, decrease transportation needs and dependence on imports, and, in general, obtain a more sustainable energy production process. Designing such systems is a challenge, for which novel optimization approaches were developed to help decision making. Previous work used the P-Graph framework to optimize energy production in a small rural area, involving manure, intercrops, grass, and corn silage as inputs and fermenters. Biogas is produced in fermenters, and Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plants provide heat and electricity. A more recent result introduced the concept of operations with flexible inputs in the P-Graph framework. In this work, the concept of flexible inputs was applied to model fermenters in the original case study. A new implementation of the original decision problem was made both as a Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model and as a purely P-Graph model by using the flexible input technique. Both approaches provided the same optimal solution, with a 31% larger profit than the fixed input model.