A new approach for optimization of combined heat and power generation in edible oil plants

In this study, different available sources of supplying electrical energy in edible oil plants such as Combined Heat and Power Generation (CHP) in a steam plant, Diesel Generator (DG) power plant and national grid have been investigated and the energy conversion efficiencies have been measured using the suitable methods. The edible oil plant of Behshahr Agro-Industry Company in Iran was considered as a case study. The CHP system has been considered as the first choice for simultaneous thermal and electrical energy generation in the plant, due to the higher efficiency. For running on the optimum condition of the CHP system, an optimization model was developed based on the collected data of steam, edible oil production and electrical power generation in a year by using multiple regressions for having an equation between steam, edible oil and electrical power. The model was solved in GAMS software and the optimum condition of CHP with consideration of equipment characteristics and operational limitation were concluded. The results showed that on the optimum condition of CHP, 600 kW excess electrical power can be generated. This offers an excellent opportunity for the factory to generate 107,352 USD. Year^-1 additional revenue and to reduce considerable amount of air pollutants.