The relevance of using the renewable fuels for power grids

The paper presents the analysis and efficiency of using the cogeneration power plants and alternative energy sources. The documents on the relevance of introducing the energy-efficient measures in the economies of various countries are given. The prospects of using the alternative and renewable fuels considering the effectiveness of their use in various power systems and grids are well substantiated. Such measures contribute, on the one hand, to saving the hydrocarbon fuels extracted from the ground and to extending their use, and, on the other hand, to the development and application of the alternative power grids with the use of the renewable fuels. Firewood can serve as such a fuel. The characteristics of the firewood in the corresponding tables are described. It provides the opportunity for evaluating the efficiency of the woodfired power plant depending on the type of the firewood and the territory of growing the firewood at the development stage. Moreover, the characteristics of the firewood make it possible to estimate its necessary amount and the territory for storing and harvesting. Based on the obtained data, the authors conclude that it is necessary to develop and establish the power plants based on the reciprocating steam engines for various small and medium-sized enterprises. Design proposals for the power plant based on the reciprocating steam engine are briefly present-ed and the economic effect of its use on site is estimated.