Energy, exergy, and exergoeconomic (3E) evaluation of a hybrid multigeneration system based on a solar tower

This study focuses on analyzing a multigeneration system that integrates conventional energy systems with renewable energy sources to boost efficiency and decrease the use of fossil fuels. The aim is to find a financially viable and low-carbon solution for sustainable development. The performance of the proposed multigeneration system, which can simultaneously supply fresh water, hydrogen, heating, and cooling, is evaluated by analysis. The energy, exergy, and economic analyses in this assessment all use thermodynamic equations. In addition, the effects of different variables on the operating results of the hybrid system were examined and the economic viability of the power plant was assessed by calculating the net present value (NPV). The results of the analysis show that this system can supply 47.297 MW of electrical power, 8.287 MW of heating power, 11.222 MW of cooling power, 2.49 kg/s of fresh water, and 18.06 kg/h of hydrogen. The use of renewable solar energy leads to a 26.47 % reduction in fuel consumption and an annual reduction in CO2 emissions of 18,230 tons. The calculation results in a total system cost rate of 9299 USD/hour and a unit price of cogeneration of 34.5 USD/GJ. At the end of the 20-year lifespan of the power plant, a payback period (PP) of 2 years and 11 months was expected, which corresponds to a net profit of USD 200 million at present value.