Data-driven optimization of two novel geothermal-powered systems integrating LNG regasification with thermoelectric generation for eco-friendly seawater desalination and data center cooling

Javad Rezazadeh Mehrenjani, Amirali Shirzad, Arman Adouli and Ayat Gharehghani

Energy, 2024, vol. 313, issue C

Abstract: This study investigates the optimization of two innovative geothermal-powered multigeneration systems, each designed to simultaneously produce electricity, desalinated water, and cooling. Both systems integrate organic Rankine cycles (ORCs), absorption refrigeration cycles (ARCs), reverse osmosis (RO) desalination, liquefie.d natural gas (LNG) regasification, and thermoelectric generators (TEGs). The key distinction between the systems lies in the arrangement and working fluids of the ORCs: System 1 adopts a cascaded ORC configuration using ammonia and ethane, with the LNG-TEG serving as a heat sink for the cascaded ORC. In contrast, System 2 employs a sequential ORC design using isopentane and CO2, where the LNG-TEG functions as a heat sink for the low-temperature CO2-based ORC. These configurations influence system performance, with System 1 prioritizing freshwater and electricity production, and System 2 enhancing cooling capacity. Mathematical modeling, coupled with artificial neural networks (ANNs), facilitates multi-objective optimization using genetic algorithms. Two scenarios are explored: maximizing freshwater output in System 1 and improving cooling efficiency in System 2. The results reveal that System 1, under optimal conditions, achieves a desalination capacity of 32,488 m3/day, making it suitable for freshwater and electricity-intensive applications. In contrast, System 2 produces 24.65 MW of cooling, ideal for high-cooling-demand environments such as data centers. The analysis underscores a trade-off between initial investment and the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). System 1, despite a higher upfront cost, offers a lower LCOE, while System 2 provides more immediate cost-effectiveness. This research advances the understanding of geothermal-powered systems, offering insights into their environmental sustainability and economic viability.

Keywords: Geothermal-powered desalination; Data center cooling; Organic Rankine cycle; Reverse osmosis (RO) desalination; Multi-objective optimization; Artificial neural network (ANN) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:energy:v:313:y:2024:i:c:s0360544224036247

DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2024.133846

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