Comparative Study of Biomass for Co-Firing Coal Power Plant Based on 4A+1S Principle in Supporting the Achievement of SDGs in Indonesia

Abstract

This research aims to compare three types of biomass, namely wood pellets, palm kernel shells, and sawdust in the application of co-firing systems in coal power plants using the 4A+1S approach (Availability, Affordability, Acceptability, Adaptability, and Sustainability). This research uses the literature review method using previous research and other relevant documents to obtain biomass characteristics based on combustion efficiency, calorific value, and CO2 emission reduction. Data analysis was conducted using the 4A+1S principle to review the feasibility of using fuel in a co-firing system. The results showed that wood pellets had the highest performance with a heating value of 4,500-5,000 kcal/kg and higher combustion efficiency compared to palm kernel shells and sawdust. Palm kernel shell excels in affordability and sustainability due to its abundant availability in oil palm producing areas. While sawdust provides economic potential, it has the lowest efficiency and requires more careful management. Based on the 4A+1S principle, the selection of appropriate biomass for co-firing needs to consider availability, cost including plant operational needs, acceptability, adaptability to the system, and sustainability to support the achievement of SDGs, particularly in carbon emission reduction and sustainable energy transition in Indonesia.

Keywords: Biomass, Co-Firing, Coal-fired Power Plant, SDGs