Design and Construction of a Mini Wood Waste Thermal Power Plant (Abong-Mbang - Cameroon)

Abstract; The present study focussed on the energetic valorization of wood waste with the general objective of contributing to increasing the energy mix and flexibility in wood processing units. Specifically, it was about evaluating the quantity and composition of wood waste available at the Société de Transformation de Bois et Commerce (STBC) and estimating its energy potential, designing and experimenting with a mini-thermal power plant operating using these waste, and estimating the contribution of such an electrical production unit to meeting the company's energy needs and the associated costs. The characterization of wood waste was carried out through methodical monitoring of six (06) logs throughout the production chain and supplemented by monthly production reports and scientific data. At STBC, wood waste accounts for 62% of the volume of wood processed between March and May 2025. These wood waste consist of 24% edgings, 17% trimmings, 16% slabs, and 5% sawdust. The mini thermal power plant, only fueled with edgings and trimmings, was designed using Revit 2024 software and built with local materials. The combustion of 15 Kg of waste produced a gross thermal energy of 181.5 MJ, a useful thermal energy of 86.2 MJ, and an electrical energy of 31.8 MJ, resulting in an electrical efficiency of 17.5%. The electrical needs of STBC are currently 14 KWh/m3 of raw timbers, provided at an average cost of 148 FCFA/KWh. Thus, for a projected production of 40,000 m3 of sawn timber by 2026, the valorization of 25% of waste (13,000 T) within the system would produce 65 KWh/m3 at a competitive cost of 39 FCFA/KWh. The implementation of a thermal power plant would therefore allow STBC to cover all its electrical needs at a lower cost and even meet the electrical demand of surrounding households and services.