Biomass Energy Carbon Capture and Sequestration With Nuclear Fusion: A Promising Option for Future Energy Sustainability?

Abstract

This thesis proposes and analyses an innovative sustainable power plant concept, Nuclear Fusion BECCS. This conceptual plant utilizes nuclear fusion reaction as the heat source for the biomass gasification process. Product synthetic gas will then be used for electricity generation, and the produced carbon dioxide will be removed and sequestrated in the underground reservoir. The environmental impact of 1 kWh electricity production was assessed through life cycle assessment, and the life cycle GHG emissions of the plant was estimated to be -0.868 kg CO2-eq/kWh. This was the lowest GHG emissions among nine comparing power plants. The economic performance of the plant was also assessed by its levelized cost of electricity. The calculated cost of electricity of Nuclear Fusion BECCS was 0.203 $/kWh, the highest among nine power plants; however, thanks to its large net negative GHG emissions, the economic performance of Nuclear Fusion BECCS improved dramatically as the carbon price increases. It was indicated when the carbon price rises higher than 177 $/t CO2, Nuclear Fusion BECCS would become the most economical plant among nine power plants. Combined with the projected increase in carbon price in the next few decades, it was predicted that Nuclear Fusion BECCS plant would become the most economical plant in the market by 2050. Is Nuclear Fusion BECCS a promising option for future energy sustainability? I conclude the answer is, “yes.”