Optimization of Energy Efficiency Based on Woodchip and Palm Kernel Shell Blending Ratio at PLTBm Deli Serdang
Keywords:
Biomass, Cofiring, Power Plant, Boiler.Abstract
This study investigates the impact of biomass fuel blend ratios specifically woodchips and palm kernel shells (PKS) on the energy efficiency and operational reliability of the Deli Serdang Biomass Power Plant (PLTBm). Through analysis of operational data from June to October 2024, the plant's total energy output reached 16,827,157 kWh, with the highest efficiency recorded in August at 449 kWh per ton of biomass. The study expands beyond energy output to evaluate technical performance parameters including Specific Biomass Consumption (1.65–1.85 kg/kWh), Net Plant Heat Rate (4,490–4,780 kcal/kWh), and fuel characteristics such as moisture content and its effect on Lower Heating Value (LHV), which declined from 2,950 kcal/kg to 2,350 kcal/kg as moisture increased from 15% to 35%. Reliability assessments revealed 316 hours of outages over five months, concentrated in periods of increased PKS usage and operational strain. These findings suggest that a fuel blending strategy prioritizing woodchips with moderate PKS supplementation offers the best balance between energy efficiency, combustion stability, and operational consistency. This research contributes practical insights for optimizing biomass power plant performance in tropical and supply-variable environments.
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