Jointly conducted by UB and INRAE, this research develops an evaluation methodology for biomass gasification electricity production systems.
Grâce Chidikofan, researcher at I2M-BX (Université de Bordeaux).
Thesis defended in 2017 at the doctoral school Sciences des métiers de l'ingénieur (SMI) - ED 432.
This research is the result of an international co-supervision between several partner institutions.
Referenced in the ABES/STAR network, this thesis meets the rigorous criteria of French higher education.
Research on biomass gasification in rural areas is of increasing relevance, especially in the context of West Africa, where energy needs are constantly rising. Indeed, many rural regions suffer from limited access to electricity, which hinders their socio-economic development. Grâce Chidikofan's thesis proposes an innovative methodological framework to assess the performance and sustainability of these biomass gasification electricity production systems, a crucial issue for rural electrification. By defining clear evaluation criteria and developing tailored models, this study paves the way for more sustainable and accessible energy solutions that could transform the lives of rural populations.
The methodological framework developed in this thesis is based on fourteen evaluation criteria, taking into account the technical, economic, environmental, and social dimensions of sustainability. These criteria not only allow for the assessment of the performance of electricity production systems but also help identify optimal configurations to valorize local biomass. For example, by considering the availability of biomass resources, operating costs, and the specific energy needs of communities, it becomes possible to design systems adapted to local realities. Simulation results show that it is possible to achieve an affordable electricity cost while providing flexibility to the operator to adapt to demand. This is particularly relevant in countries like Burkina Faso, where fluctuations in energy demand can be significant depending on the seasons and agricultural activities.
This research raises important questions: how can policymakers integrate these methodologies into their energy policies? What are the implications for rural communities that depend on these systems? By addressing these questions, we can envision a more sustainable energy future for West Africa. It is essential that governments and non-governmental organizations take these new approaches into account to develop energy policies that promote the use of biomass as a renewable energy source.
Policymakers must also consider the challenges related to the implementation of these systems. The availability of biomass, the necessary infrastructure, and institutional support are key elements to ensure the success of these projects. For example, establishing efficient supply chains for the collection and processing of biomass is crucial. Furthermore, the development of electricity transport and distribution infrastructure is essential to connect rural areas to existing electrical networks.
It is also important to involve local communities in the decision-making and implementation process. This can translate into training for local operators, awareness programs on the benefits of biomass gasification, and crowdfunding initiatives to support projects. In summary, this thesis provides a solid framework to guide rural electrification initiatives through biomass gasification, but it requires strong commitment from public and private stakeholders to turn these recommendations into concrete actions.
Finally, it is crucial to establish partnerships between the public and private sectors, as well as with international organizations, to mobilize the necessary resources for the implementation of these systems. Investments in research and development, as well as in pilot projects, can also play a decisive role in accelerating the adoption of biomass gasification in rural areas. In conclusion, Grâce Chidikofan's thesis represents a significant advancement in research on biomass gasification electricity production systems, and it offers promising prospects for rural electrification in West Africa.
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Grâce Chidikofan. Développement méthodologique pour l'évaluation des performances et de la durabilité des systèmes de production d'électricité par gazéification de biomasse en milieu rural : Etude de cas au Burkina-Faso. Energie électrique. École Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Métiers; Institut international d'ingénierie de l'eau et de l'environnement, 2017. Français. ⟨NNT : 2017ENAM0063⟩. ⟨tel-01769099⟩