Multi-objective grey wolf optimization of four different geothermal flash -organic Rankine power cycles

Abstract

Geothermal energy, a sustainable and abundant resource, has garnered significant attention for its potential to contribute to the world's growing energy demands. Integrating organic Rankine cycles with geothermal flash cycles has emerged as a promising avenue in this pursuit. Four feasible arrangements are proposed, and their productivity and thermodynamic/economic criteria are compared. The four processes include a single flash-single loop, a dual flash-single loop, a single flash-dual loop, and a dual flash-dual loop. These structures are optimized in four scenarios: energetic efficiency/net output electrical power, energetic efficiency/payback period, exergetic efficiency/net output electrical power, and exergetic efficiency/payback period. The optimization results show that a dual flash–dual loop brings out the optimum productivity compared to the other arranged structures. The dual flash–dual loop configuration consistently outperforms the others, emerging as the optimal solution for maximizing productivity while ensuring economic viability in geothermal energy utilization via organic Rankine cycles. In conclusion, this study not only advances understanding of the synergistic potential between organic Rankine cycles and geothermal flash cycles but also provides invaluable guidance for stakeholders seeking to harness the full potential of geothermal energy with a keen eye on efficiency, sustainability, and economic feasibility.