Techno-economic Analysis of Biomass-fired ORC Systems for Single-family Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Applications

AbstractThe aim of the paper is the investigation of the energetic performances and the economic feasibility of Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs) for biomass single-family combined heat and power (CHP) generation. To this purpose, a parametric energy analysis has been performed to identify the proper system configurations. Subcritical and transcritical cycles, with saturated and superheated conditions at the turbine inlet, have been analysed and the impact of internal regeneration on system behaviour has been studied. The work reveals the large influence of the maximum temperature and the noticeable effect of the internal regeneration on the ORC system performances and the relative energy saving capabilities.An economic feasibility analysis has been performed for single-family users, taking into account the Italian scenario and the incentives for high efficiency cogeneration. The results in terms of return on investment and net positive value highlight that biomass-fired ORC system appears an attractive option for single-family CHP applications