Advanced exergoeconomic and environmental assessment of a proposed novel electricity generation system

This research addresses significant gaps in the existing literature by proposing a novel and modified electricity generation system based on a geothermal-powered Kalina cycle. The system is designed to enhance both energy efficiency and economic viability by increasing the temperature of the primary geothermal energy reservoir. Additionally, it aims to achieve a competitive advantage over other renewable energy systems by delivering higher energy efficiency metrics compared to current facilities. This study introduces an innovative electricity generation configuration utilizing a geothermal Kalina cycle, specifically designed for simplicity and improved economic feasibility. Unlike conventional systems, the proposed configuration raises the geothermal fluid temperature without relying on auxiliary energy sources or prime movers, instead using efficient ammonia–water heat transfer mechanisms within the absorber. The system’s performance and feasibility were evaluated through comprehensive energy, exergy, exergoeconomic, and environmental analyses. The results demonstrate that the proposed system achieved a net power output of 47,271 kW with an energy efficiency of 32.90%, significantly outperforming conventional geothermal Kalina cycles, which typically range from 10.30 to 19.48% in efficiency. The integration of the absorber-enhanced heat utilization by enabling improved thermal matching between the geothermal source and the working fluid, thereby reducing exergy destruction and boosting overall system performance. Comparative analysis with similarly scaled geothermal power plants confirmed the system’s superior economic and energetic performance. The proposed system produced 12,141 MWh of electricity annually, with an initial investment cost of US$4.27 million and a payback period of 2.48 years. The environmental assessment further revealed significant reductions in CO₂ emissions per unit of electricity, reinforcing the system’s sustainability potential. The economic evaluation indicated a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of US$0.04/kWh, positioning the system as a cost-competitive and viable solution for geothermal energy generation. In addition, advanced and conventional exergy analyses, along with exergoeconomic and environmental evaluations, were conducted. Notably, components EV1, S, and T exhibited the highest rates of exergy destruction, highlighting areas for further optimization. This study underscores the thermodynamic, economic, and environmental benefits of the modified Kalina cycle and contributes to the advancement of efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable renewable energy technologies.