Energy analysis of ethanol production from sugarcane in Zimbabwe

Abstract Ethanol has been successfully produced from sugarcane in Zimbabwe over the past ten years whilst maintaining a favourable energy output to input ratio of 1:1.9. It is shown that it is practicable to improve this ratio to between 3.8 and 4.1 by operational changes such as maximising ethanol production during the cane crushing season and storing surplus bagasse for use during the offcrop season in place of coal which is presently used. Further improvements are also possible by the introduction of more efficient boilers, increasing surplus bagasse availability during the offcrop season, and the greater use of stillage as a fertiliser.