Thermoeconomics Analysis and Optimization of a Geothermal-Based Power and Heat Generation System Using Genetic Algorithm

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 M.Sc. Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
2 Assistant professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran
3 Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
Abstract
In this study, a combined heat and power (CHP) system based on geothermal energy is introduced, analyzed from energy, exergy, economic, and environmental perspectives, and optimized using a genetic algorithm. The system consists of an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) and an improved Brayton cycle, designed to utilize geothermal energy. The energy analysis results show that the system's net power output is 3585 kW, and its heating heat rate is 12278 kW. The energy and exergy efficiencies of the system are calculated to be 42.9% and 47.31%, respectively. The results related to the effects of operational parameters indicate that increasing the maximum pressure in the ORC and the temperature difference across heat exchangers significantly affect energy efficiency, exergy efficiency, and the levelized cost of products. Specifically, for every 100 kPa increase in the ORC’s maximum pressure, the energy efficiency increases by 11.2%, and the exergy efficiency increases by 6.29%. Additionally, an optimization process was carried out using a genetic algorithm to maximize energy and exergy efficiencies and minimize the levelized cost of products. Furthermore, optimization of the proposed system resulted in a 30% reduction in the levelized cost of products and a 9.4% reduction in the exergoenvironmental index.
Keywords
Subjects

اصل مقاله

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Volume 4, Issue 1 - Serial Number 7
August 2025
Pages 183-201

  • Receive Date 10 April 2025
  • Revise Date 04 June 2025
  • Accept Date 12 July 2025
  • First Publish Date 12 July 2025
  • Publish Date 22 June 2025