Biomass Energy from Agricultural Waste at Peninsula de Santa Elena: A Sustainable Opportunity for Local Development

This study evaluates the technical, environmental, and economic feasibility of converting plantain and banana biomass (PBB) into renewable energy in the Santa Elena province, Ecuador. Through GIS-based assessment, empirical correlations for heating value estimation, and energy/exergy analyses, our work identifies 253,389.98 tons/year of field residues with a theoretical energy potential of 382.79 GWh/year. Passive solar drying and mechanical grinding enable low-energy pre-treatment, yielding a net energy output of 12.41 MJ/kg and an exergy efficiency of 51.2%, confirming the system’s thermodynamic viability. If implemented at scale with a 20% plant factor, the energy recovered could meet 17% of the province’s current electricity demand. Economic projections estimate a potential annual revenue of USD 18.95 million based on current electricity prices, supporting the profitability of decentralized combustion systems. The integration of PBB into the regional energy matrix contributes to reducing fossil fuel reliance, enhancing energy security, and promoting sustainable rural development. These findings align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 and 13, positioning biomass energy as a viable solution to Ecuador’s decarbonization goals and rural energy challenges.