Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from steam power plants through optimal integration with algae and cogeneration systems

Abstract

This paper presents an optimization approach for mitigating CO2 emissions in the electric power generation through integrated algae and cogeneration systems. A framework is proposed for the integration of biofixation of CO2 through the cultivation of microalgae, conversion of microalgae to biodiesel, and a steam power plant with cogeneration that is thermally coupled with an industrial facility. A systematic multi-objective optimization approach is developed to integrate the considered units while simultaneously addressing technical, economic, and environmental objectives. The solution of the optimization problem is carried out via a hierarchical decomposition approach, a genetic algorithm, and the e-constraint method for solving the multi-objective optimization problem. A case study is considered to integrate an existing thermoelectric power station in Mexico with an algae-and-cogeneration system. The results show that important environmental, economic, and energy benefits can be achieved as a result of the proposed integration approach.