Lignite-based polygeneration system has been considered as a feasible technology to realize clean and efficient utilization of coal resources. A newly polygeneration system has been proposed, featuring the combination of a 2 x 300 MW circulating fluidized bed (CFB) power plant and atmospheric pressure fluidized bed pyrolyzers. Xiaolongtan lignite is pyrolyzed in pyrolyzers. Pyrolyzed volatiles are further utilized for the co-generation of methanol, oil, and electricity, while char residues are fired in CFB boilers to maintain the full load condition of boilers. Detailed system models were built, and the optimum operation parameters of the polygeneration plant were sought. Technical and economic performances of optimum design of the polygeneration plant were analyzed and compared with those of the conventional CFB power plant based on the evaluation of energy and exergy efficiency, internal rate of return (IRR), and payback period. Results revealed that system efficiency and the IRR of the polygeneration plant are ca. 9% and 14% points higher than those of the power plant, respectively. The study also analyzed the effects of market fluctuations on the economic condition of the polygeneration plant, and found that prices of fuel, material, and products have great impacts on the economic characteristics of the polygeneration plant. Polygeneration plant is more economic than CFB power plant even when prices fluctuate within a wide range. This paper provides a thorough evaluation of the polygeneration plant, and the study indicates that the proposed polygeneration plant has a bright prospect. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.