An economic comparison assessment of lignite and biomass IGCC power plants

An economic assessment between lignite and biomass integrated gasification combined cycle power plants (IGCC and BIGCC respectively) for power generation was carried out. The two alternative power plants are presented together with the selection of the appropriate equipment. An economic evaluation was carried out for the two power plants, taking into account a net power of 100 MW. The economic evaluation was carried out using the methods of the net present value and the internal rate of return. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was carried out. Calculations have been carried out with an Excel spreadsheet.It was shown that both investments are profitable throughout their economic life. However, because of the difference in the selling price of the MW h between the two power plants and to the cost of CO2 emissions for the lignite power plant, the biomass plant is more profitable with a net present value up to 417 M€ and an internal rate of return of 23.33%. A threshold price of 27.28 €/t for CO2 emissions was also determined.

► An economic comparison between IGCC and BIGCC plants was carried out. ► The methods of the NPV and IRR were used. ► It was shown that both investments are profitable throughout their economic life. ► However, the biomass power plant is more profitable. ► A threshold price for CO2 emissions was also determined.