Flexible Hybrid Process for Combined Production of Heat, Power and Renewable Feedstock for Refineries : Managing seasonal energy supply and demand for heat and power in Europe

A flexible combined heat, power and fuel production concept, FlexCHX, is being developed for managing the seasonal mismatch between solar energy supply demand heat characteristic of northern central Europe. The process produces an intermediate carrier (Fischer-Tropsch (FT) hydrocarbon product), which can be refined to transportation fuels using existing refineries. FlexCHX integrated into various (CHP) systems, both industrial CHPs communal district heating units. In summer season, renewable are produced from biomass hydrogen; hydrogen water via electrolysis that driven by low-cost excess electricity grid. dark winter plant operated only with in order maximise much-needed FT hydrocarbons. Most invested components full use throughout year unit seasonally. catalytic reformer plays a key role this converting tars light gases synthesis gas (syngas) bringing main constituents towards equilibrium. Developmental precious metal catalysts were used, optimal concept was established tested at pilot scale. Reforming results obtained gasification tests commercial nickel presented.