STEM: Biomass Feedstock Logistics and Cost Optimization Tool

The Stochastic Techno-Economic Model (STEM) is an analytical tool designed to estimate the logistics cost of various biomass feedstocks while incorporating uncertainty into the modeling framework. Covering multiple stages of the biomass life cycle, it calculates the total logistics cost per dry metric ton and breaks down costs into key categories. By addressing risk and limited understanding of performance benchmarks, STEM helps attract capital investment to the cellulosic biofuels industry. This emerging field faces challenges in data access and accuracy, but STEM's incorporation of uncertainty demonstrates the impact of specific processes on feedstock preprocessing costs. Developed in Microsoft Excel with an @Risk add-in, STEM is easy to use and offers flexibility for users. It supports system-level analysis by identifying the components of the feedstock supply chain that generate the greatest risks, enabling stakeholders to better understand and mitigate investment risks and improve the likelihood of biofuel development success.

This software is open source and available at no cost. Download now by visiting the product's GitHub page.