The application of power station technology to sugar mills for year-round electricity export

Cogeneration is a familiar term for the sugar milling industry, with many mill townships originally supplied by mill generated electricity. As the power transmission network expanded, these arrangements were replaced by grid electricity. In recent years, the recognition of the ability to generate surplus electricity has led to improved electricity sales arrangements resulting in additional revenue for several mills. However, unless there is year-round electricity generation, other power stations are required to back up this generating capacity. Standby operation needs careful consideration, as it requires full boiler availability with limited revenue from power sales. There is interest in the community and therefore potential gains in the development of power generation from renewable fuel sources. Bagasse is a significant renewable energy source and various techniques can be used to maximise its usefulness to a power station. Proposed technologies inelude: intentional production of surplus bagasse, additional cane trash collection, cost effective handling and storage of bagasse, supply of other fuels to the sugar mill, high efficiency steam technology and enhanced thermodynamic cycles.