Title:
Zero Fossil Fuel on Galapagos: Floreana Island’s Off Grid Pure Jatropha Oil/ PV Hybrid System: Results on Three Years’ Engine Operation, Emissions, Sustainable Jatropha Oil Production
Author(s):
Gruber, G.
Document(s):
Paper
Poster
Abstract:
After Galapagos Islands suffered from two tank ship accidents causing death of 10,000 marine iguanas and other species, the “Zero Fossil Fuel for Galapagos Islands Initiative” was started by the Ecuadorian Government. On Floreana Island, a 100% renewable energy hybrid system of two 69 kWel. Jatropha oil generators supplied from VWP-Gruber and a 21 kWpeak photovoltaic are successfully providing electricity for the inhabitants since 2010. After 20,000 hours no engine defect occurred and the emissions with pure Jatropha oil and diesel are within the required limit. For fuel supply, the so-called “Living Fence” concept collecting Jatropha seeds by small-scale farmers from already existing 6,000 km hedges on Ecuadorian mainland was chosen to comply with highest sustainability standards. A CompacTropha oil mill container including the patented VWP/Waldland process for reduction of engine damaging ash building elements like phosphorous, calcium and magnesia to the analytical limit of detection provides an ambitious fuel quality standard following the German DIN 51605. The sustainable production of both fuel and electricity is Galapagos’ contribution to a technical evolution for the “Energiewende” of the world.
Keywords:
alternative fuel, biofuel, power generation, sustainability, oilseeds, vegetable oil, Jatropha curcas L.
Topic:
Industrial Demonstration and Business Concepts
Subtopic:
Biofuels utilisation for power generation
Event:
21st European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
4BV.4.8
Pages:
1632 - 1638
ISBN:
978-88-89407-53-0
Paper DOI:
10.5071/21stEUBCE2013-4BV.4.8
Price:
FREE
