Hybrid Energy Solution

Hybrid Solar-Biomass Energy

An innovative energy system combining 20 MW solar + 20 MW biomass for reliable 24/7 power supply

The PAGRIES project in Sankuru, DRC, aims to establish an integrated agro-industrial and energy hub, with a foundational 20 MW solar plant. While solar energy offers significant environmental benefits, its intermittency poses challenges for continuous power supply required by industrial and agricultural operations.

This proposal outlines the integration of biomass gasification systems with the planned solar infrastructure to create a robust hybrid energy solution, ensuring 24/7 reliable power while leveraging the abundant agricultural residues generated by PAGRIES.

Solar Energy

Current Energy Plan: Solar PV

PAGRIES Solar Plan

PAGRIES' initial energy strategy centers on a 20 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant.

Solar PV is a clean and renewable energy source, excellent for daytime power generation, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.

This foundational solar capacity is a significant step towards providing renewable energy for the integrated agro-industrial and energy hub.

Capacity: 20 MW Solar PV

Limitations of Solar PV

1

Intermittency

Solar output fluctuates with weather conditions (clouds, rain) and ceases entirely at night.

2

Continuous Supply Challenge

Industrial and agricultural operations require a continuous, stable power supply, which solar alone cannot guarantee.

3

Need for Storage

Requires extensive and costly battery energy storage systems (BESS) to provide power during non-generation periods.

4

Grid Stability

Managing grid stability with high solar penetration can be complex without complementary dispatchable power.

Agricultural Biomass

Biomass Resource Assessment

Valorisation des résidus agricoles pour une énergie durable et continue

90,000
tons/year of rice husk
150,000 ha of rice cultivation
120,000
tons/year of corn stover
30,000 ha of corn cultivation
300,000
tons/year of sugarcane bagasse
20,000 ha of sugarcane cultivation
Total Potential
66.67 MW
Total Continuous Electrical Potential

Hybrid System Architecture

Benefits of Hybridization for PAGRIES

Integrating biomass gasification with solar PV offers several compelling advantages

24/7 Reliable Power

Overcomes the intermittency of solar power, providing a continuous and stable electricity supply essential for agro-industrial operations.

Enhanced Energy Security

Reduces reliance on external fuel sources and grid connections, fostering energy independence for the Sankuru region.

Waste-to-Energy Solution

Effectively valorizes agricultural residues, transforming waste into a valuable energy resource and addressing waste management challenges.

Economic Sustainability

Potentially lower operational costs compared to diesel generators, especially given the local availability of biomass.

Environmental Stewardship

Utilizes renewable biomass, contributing to a lower carbon footprint compared to fossil fuels, and aligns with sustainable development goals.

Local Job Creation

Development and operation of the biomass gasification plant would create additional local employment opportunities in fuel collection, plant operation, and maintenance.

Implementation Roadmap

Key steps to realize this hybrid energy solution

01

Detailed Feasibility Study

Analyze biomass feedstock characteristics, logistics for collection, and conduct detailed economic modeling for the 20 MW plant.

02

Technology Selection

Engage with specialized manufacturers to select the most suitable gasification technology for the PAGRIES context.

03

System Design & Integration

Develop detailed engineering for the integrated solar-biomass system, including power electronics and smart controls.

04

Permitting & Compliance

Secure all necessary environmental and operational permits from DRC authorities to ensure regulatory compliance.

05

Construction & Commissioning

Oversee the construction, installation, and commissioning of the biomass plant and its integration with the solar PV system.

06

Operations & Maintenance

Establish robust O&M protocols, manage the biomass supply chain, and provide technical training for local personnel.

A Resilient and Sustainable Energy Future for Sankuru

By strategically combining its planned solar PV capacity with a biomass gasification system fueled by its own agricultural residues, PAGRIES can establish a truly resilient, sustainable, and economically viable energy hub. This hybrid approach will not only secure 24/7 power for the Sankuru region but also transform agricultural waste into a valuable asset, driving both economic development and environmental sustainability for generations to come.

Contact us to learn more