Optimization of a co-generative biomass plant location using open source GIS techniques. Technical, economical and environmental validation methodology

Abstract

The principal aim of this research activity is to identify, inside the administrative territory of the Carnia Mountain Community, Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, Italy, the optimal location of a new co-generative biomass plant, exploiting georeferenced parameters obtained through an integrated analysis based on open source GIS (Geographical Information System) and DBMS (Database Management System) applications. The parameters used for this analysis are related to naturally available biomass estimation, public and private users distribution, already existing and planned thermal plants, wood industrial activities locations and electrical and road infrastructures. All these georeferenced data have been homogenized and processed together in order to obtain the energetic demand and offer maps. The authors present a methodological approach to verify and validate the GIS based optimal solution, taking into account the thermal requirements of the residential, commercial and industrial settlements potentially connectable inside the cogeneration plant catchment area. It is expected to realize the technical, economic and environmental feasibility related to the different proposed plant solutions (the generation plant of heat and electricity and district heating network), thus allowing to compare the proposed solution with the traditional plants powered by fossil fuels.