An environmentally friendly process design of an innovative CCHP-desalination system combined with a geothermal cycle and LNG regasification unit

Abstract

The importance of geothermal energy in the urban energy supply is derived from its renewable nature, power generation capabilities, and potential for lowering air pollutants. The utilization of combined arrangements utilizing geothermal energy represents an outstanding alternative option. Hence, present investigation proposes a novel and environmentally friendly multigeneration framework for a geothermal energy resource, incorporating combined cooling, heating, power (CCHP), and desalination systems. Furthermore, the entire system includes a liquefied natural gas regasification unit. The present study simulates the system utilizing the Aspen HYSYS software, wherein a comprehensive analysis is conducted on considerations of energy, exergy, economics, and environment. The study also includes a comprehensive parametric study. According to the study's findings, the system can generate 863.8 kg/s of hot water, 22.01 kg/s of chilled water, and 59.67 kg/s of fresh water, along with a power output potential of 120,185 kW. Besides, this process yields energy, thermal, and electrical efficiencies at 25.08 %, 10.25 %, and 14.12 %, correspondingly. The exergy analysis findings demonstrate that the system's efficiency for power generation and multigeneration modes is 45.17 % and 47.79 %, respectively. From the economic aspect, the total unit cost of products is found at 2.91 $/GJ and the cost of energy at 0.0962 $/kWh.