Researchers Developed AI for Biomass Power Forecasting

A new AI framework increases biomass forecasting accuracy by 25% to optimize energy use in palm oil factories.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Energy

Isometric editorial illustration of a brass steam turbine valve and steel piping, representing industrial energy optimization technology.
Researchers at SLIIT have developed an AI-driven forecasting system that improves biomass power efficiency in industrial palm oil processing factories. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Researchers at SLIIT have developed an AI-driven forecasting system that predicts biomass power requirements for steam turbines. The project aims to improve efficiency in palm oil factories by better aligning energy production with demand.

Why it matters

Overestimating energy needs results in wasted biomass, while underestimating them forces factories to rely on external grid electricity. This new tool helps optimize fuel use by accurately anticipating operational power requirements.

The study utilized an eight-year industrial dataset to train its machine learning model. The system monitors industrial operating patterns to optimize steam turbine output in facilities that rely on biomass residues like fibers, shells, and husks.

The players

Himaya Perera

Himaya Perera led the international research team that developed the biomass forecasting AI.

SLIIT

SLIIT is a Sri Lankan educational institute that hosted the primary research development.

Kyungpook National University

Kyungpook National University is a South Korean institution that collaborated on the research project.

La Trobe University

La Trobe University is an Australian university that provided research support for the AI study.

The details

The system utilizes machine learning to analyze historical operating patterns, allowing operators to anticipate necessary power levels in real time. This technical improvement aims to balance turbine output effectively with the specific energy demands of industrial palm oil processing.

Timeline

  1. October 6, 2026: Announcement of the AI forecasting system development.

The Big Picture

This research follows a pattern set by recent studies in Energy Conversion and Management aimed at integrating machine learning into industrial energy management. It signals a paradigm shift toward predictive rather than reactive energy modeling in agriculture-based manufacturing.

Refined power forecasting could eventually lead to reduced operational costs for biomass-dependent manufacturers, potentially lowering the environmental footprint of production. Future iterations of this system may see application across broader industrial sectors beyond the palm oil industry.

The takeaway

Advanced predictive modeling offers a practical solution to reduce resource waste in energy-intensive manufacturing. Factories can implement these machine learning patterns to gain tighter control over their power consumption and grid independence.

Further reading

Learn more about the latest innovations in Energy.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Colombogazette.

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