Title: Cost effective biomass supply chain optimisation for the bio-energy industry

Authors: Prajwal Panwar; Anand Chauhan; Anubhav Pratap Singh; Ritu Arora

Addresses: Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University), 249404, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India ' Department of Mathematics, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Bell Road Clement Town, Dehradun, 248002, Uttarakhand, India ' Department of Mathematics, S.G.R.R. P.G. College, 248001, Dehradun, Uttrakhand, India; Affiliated to: H.N.B.G.U. Srinagar, India ' Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University), 249404, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India

Abstract: Increasing energy needs and environmental concerns require sustainable solutions. A promising alternative to fossil fuels is biodiesel, generated from easily accessible macro-algae such as Ulva fasciata, Cystoseira indica and Gracilaria corticata. A cost-effective macroalgal biodiesel supply chain is proposed using optimisation methodology. Utilising an advanced algorithm, the model optimises biodiesel production from macroalgae procurement to bio-refinery and depot placement. The framework incorporates expenses, biorefinery site, biodiesel storage and strategic macroalgae extraction centres. The model is optimised using a genetic algorithm, factoring in the expenses of installing biodiesel manufacturing plants. The sensitivity analysis demonstrates that these initial expenditures considerably impact the supply chain's economic burden. Sensitivity analysis confirms the framework's usefulness, making it valuable for stakeholders such as traders and policymakers promoting the biofuel business. This study sets forth the foundation for the manufacture of biodiesel from macroalgae on a massive scale, ensuring its sustainability.

Keywords: macro-algae; sustainable energy; supply chain; bio-diesel; genetic algorithm; optimisation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESMS.2026.152041

International Journal of Engineering Systems Modelling and Simulation, 2026 Vol.17 No.2, pp.83 - 93

Received: 19 Sep 2024
Accepted: 29 Jun 2025
Published online: 04 Mar 2026 *

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