In the quest for sustainable and efficient energy solutions, a groundbreaking study led by Ceyhun Yilmaz from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Sakarya University in Turkey, is making waves. Published in Case Studies in Thermal Engineering, the research delves into the optimization and economic analysis of a geothermal-assisted hybrid system for natural gas liquefaction (LNG) and power generation. This innovative approach could revolutionize the energy sector by integrating renewable geothermal energy to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.
At the heart of this study is the integration of geothermal energy into the LNG production process. Geothermal water, extracted at 130°C and flowing at 100 kg/s, is used to drive an absorption cooling system. This system precools natural gas to a chilly -45°C before it undergoes liquefaction, a process that significantly reduces the energy demand. “By leveraging geothermal energy, we can achieve a more sustainable and cost-effective LNG production process,” Yilmaz explains. “This not only enhances efficiency but also aligns with global efforts towards renewable energy integration.”
The geothermal power plant, operating with 110°C geothermal water, generates 3000 kW of power. A significant portion of this, 1700 kW, is dedicated to the liquefaction process, which operates at a cost of 0.03 $/kWh. The excess electricity is managed through a sophisticated power control unit, ensuring optimal energy utilization. The system achieves an impressive liquefaction coefficient of performance (COP) of 0.74 and an exergy efficiency of 41.0%. These metrics highlight the system’s technical prowess and economic viability.
One of the standout findings is the LNG production cost, which stands at 0.44 $/kg. This cost efficiency is a testament to the system’s ability to balance technical performance with economic feasibility. The study also reveals that while the idealized minimum work requirement is 460.5 kJ/kg, practical evaluations indicate an actual work requirement of 1113 kJ/kg. This discrepancy underscores the operational constraints and the need for further optimization.
The thermoeconomic assessment conducted in the study provides a comprehensive view of the system’s potential. By integrating renewable geothermal energy, the system not only enhances efficiency but also reduces operational costs. This alignment with sustainable energy strategies positions the geothermal-assisted LNG system as a promising alternative for long-distance natural gas transportation.
Yilmaz’s research also aligns well with numerical simulations using Engineering Equation Solver (EES), presenting opportunities for further optimization through advanced modeling and artificial intelligence-based approaches. “The integration of AI and advanced modeling can push the boundaries of what is possible in LNG production,” Yilmaz notes. “This opens up new avenues for innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.”
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As the energy sector continues to seek sustainable and efficient solutions, the geothermal-assisted hybrid system offers a compelling alternative. By reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and leveraging renewable geothermal energy, this system can pave the way for a more sustainable future. The study, published in Case Studies in Thermal Engineering, provides valuable insights for developing cost-effective and sustainable LNG technologies, offering a promising alternative for improving LNG production efficiency while leveraging renewable energy resources. As the energy landscape evolves, this research could shape the future of LNG production and transportation, driving innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.