Utilization of Biomass in Diesel Genset for Rural Electrification

Biomass energy utilization has gained particular interest in recent years due to the progressive depletion of conventional fossil fuels that calls for an increased use of renewable energy sources. The substitution of conventional fossil fuels with biomass for energy production results both in a net reduction of greenhouse gases emissions and in the replacement of non-renewable energy sources. Today, the use of biomass-derived biogas is more promising fuel for rural electrical power generation and is addressing technique for controlling emissions levels. Biogas, a renewable fuel, is produced from anaerobic fermentation of organic material, consists of mainly 55-60 % of methane which can be burned to generate heat and electricity. Fuel properties and compatibility of biodiesel makes it to substitute diesel in diesel generator. This current research work presents biomass potential for producing electrical energy and investigates the changes in performance and emission characteristics of single cylinder four stroke diesel generators fueled with Rice Bran Methyl Ester oil (RBME)-butanol biodiesel and diesel fuel blends with variable flow rates of biogas.