Thermal gasification or direct combustion? Comparison of advanced cogeneration systems in the sugarcane industry

► We use steady state thermodynamic models to simulate a sugar-ethanol factory. ► We compare existing performance with five improved and advanced cogeneration system scenarios. ► High pressure steam Rankine cycle can significantly increase electricity generation. ► Biomass integrated gasification combined cycle can further improve efficiency. ► Gasifier requires higher minimum bagasse feed rate to meet process steam needs.