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Keywords

Triple Combined Cycle (TCC), solar power, Exergoeconomic analysis, Rock bed storage system, Iraq

Document Type

Research Paper

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive performance and exergoeconomic assessment of a solar-driven triple combined cycle (TCC) power system integrated with a rock bed thermal storage unit and an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) for enhanced sustainable power generation in Iraq. The proposed system combines Brayton, Rankine, and Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) cycles to maximize energy recovery from both high- and low-grade heat sources. The integration of the ORC unit significantly improves system efficiency by utilizing residual thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted. The analysis used Engineering Equation Solver (EES) software, incorporating monthly climatic data from Salahaddin, Iraq. Thermodynamic and exergoeconomic evaluations assessed energy efficiency, exergy destruction, component costs, and electricity production cost. Unlike previous studies, this research introduces an advanced exergoeconomic perspective, providing a more realistic assessment of technical and economic performance. Results indicate that the system achieves a power output of 12.4 MW in June, with energy and exergy efficiencies of 37.37% and 40.8%, respectively, and a unit electricity cost of $33.31 per hour. In January, the output increases to 14.17 MW with higher exergy efficiency (46.21%) but at a higher cost due to reduced solar availability. The addition of the ORC unit enhances both energy recovery and economic performance, especially during periods of low solar input, supporting the system’s viability for year-round renewable power generation.

References

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Highlights

A solar triple cycle with PTCs, TES, and Brayton-Rankine-ORC improves efficiency and ensures continuous power Seasonal changes affect performance; March yields 42.55 MW, while July has the lowest output and highest cost Exergy destruction totals were 82.255 MW, with PTC losses at 66.93 MW and peak costs reaching $906.52 per hour System optimization raises gas turbine inlet temperature and adjusts RC boiler pinch point to reduce costs

DOI

10.30684/etj.2025.158167.1913

First Page

561

Last Page

576

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