Electrification-enabled production of Fischer-Tropsch liquids – A process and economic perspective
Mahsa Mehrara, Sennai Mesfun, Johan Ahlström, Andrea Toffolo, Elisabeth Wetterlund
Abstract
Transitioning to biofuels is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in transportation, but limited biomass availability requires maximizing carbon efficiency. This study evaluates Fischer-Tropsch liquid (FTL) production from biomass, focusing on the impact of partial electrification and carbon capture and storage (CCS) on efficiency and flexibility. Five configurations—ranging from a biomass-intensive base case to a fully electrified process—are simulated and assessed through techno-economic and GHG evaluations under fluctuating energy prices. Full electrification achieves the highest carbon efficiency, increasing carbon-to-liquid fuel conversion from 37 % to 91 %, but faces challenges due to high electricity demand (up to 2.5 MWh per MWh of fuel) and reliance on low-carbon grids. Partial electrification offers a cost-effective alternative, reducing production costs by up to 40 % compared to fully electrified cases, while maintaining a carbon efficiency of around 60 %. CCS enables net-negative emissions, though its viability hinges on sufficiently strong carbon pricing incentives. Compliance with sustainability mandates, such as Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO) requirements, depends on access to decarbonized electricity. Overall, partially electrified BtL pathways enhance carbon utilization, reduce emissions, and offer resilience to market fluctuations. These pathways provide a promising balance of environmental and economic performance, outperforming both traditional BtL under high biomass prices and fully electrified e-fuels in terms of cost. Their advantages make them attractive from both investment and policy perspectives—especially in markets supported by stable electricity prices, carbon incentives, and sustainability-driven regulation.