Estimation of pine needle availability in the Central Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, India for use as energy feedstock. (December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kala, L.D.; Subbarao, P.M.V.
• Is Part Of: Renewable energy. Volume 128(2018)Part A
• Page Start: 9
• Page End: 19
• Publication Date: 2018-12
• Subjects: Pine needles -- Gross annual yield -- Pine needle gasification -- Factors affecting availability as energy feed-stock -- Primary energy delivery potential; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Periodicals; Énergies renouvelables -- Périodiques; Ressources énergétiques -- Périodiques; 333.794
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2018.05.054
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-1481

Abstract

Abstract: Results of an attempt to estimate the availability of pine needles ( pinus roxburghii ) in the state of Uttarakhand, India that can be used as energy feedstock have been presented. Three somewhat different approaches have been used to estimate the gross annual availability of pine needles in the state. By taking into account several different factors that are expected to reduce the availability of pine needles for their use as energy feedstock; the likely net availability of the same has been estimated. The gross annual availability of pine needle is found to vary from 1.37 to 2.37 million tons in the three approaches. The annual availability of pine needles for energy applications is estimated to be in the range of 0.96–1.66 million tons. The annual primary energy potential of pine needles available as energy feedstock in the state has also been estimated. Annual energy delivery potential of pine needles likely to be available has also been estimated in terms of thermal and electrical energy generation. Highlights: Pine needles can be an important energy feedstock though not being used presently. Annual gross availability of pine needles in Uttarakhand is estimated; factors affecting their net availability as energy feedstock identified. Annual gross availability of pine needles is in the range of 1.37–2.37 million tons. Net annual availability of pine needles is in between 0.96 and 1.66 million tons. The annual primary energy potential estimated between 18–32 PJ and annual electrical energy delivery potential between 1035–1791 GWh.