Multi-Source Biofuel Supply Chain Network Optimization

As the world strives to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, biofuels such as bioethanol are emerging as promising energy sources. As a result, scholars have explored the supply chain of biomass production including harvesting, logistics, and production processes. While most research evaluates single-source supply chains, this study uses a real-world case study in North Dakota to create an integrated multi-sourcing supply chain network for biomass procurement from diverse sources, such as switchgrass and agricultural residues. The mathematical model is structured to address the facility location-allocation. Furthermore, we consider the sustainability of the bioethanol supply chain and formulate an optimization model that minimizes total costs.