Coupling Mechanism, Thermodynamics and Environment Performance of a Multi-Energy Complementary Hybrid Power System Integrated with Solar Thermochemical Process
摘要
In the quest to mitigate the energy crisis, a pivotal area of research is dedicated to the pursuit of efficient and clean energy utilization methods. This study delves into the development of a high-performance, eco-friendly multi-energy complementary distributed power system. By integrating a solar methane reforming thermochemical process with efficient solid oxide fuel cell-micro gas turbine power unit, and employing the innovative Kalina cycle to recover the low-temperature waste heat from exhaust gas, a new hybrid power system has been constructed. This system leverages solar methane reforming to transform the fluctuating solar energy into stable syngas chemical energy, facilitating a strategic cascade utilization of the fuel’s chemical potential. Through the application of rigorous energy and exergy analysis methodologies, coupled with a thorough environmental assessment focusing on the life cycle assessment of pollutant emissions, this study unveils the intricate mechanism of fuel energy grade enhancement and solar energy grade optimization within the thermochemical reaction framework of solar-assisted methane steam reforming. The findings demonstrate a remarkable 23.02% increase in the lover heating value of the syngas produced through the thermochemical process, compared to that of pure methane, showcasing the system’s ability to maximize the utilization of chemical and physical energy from the fuel. The novel power system has an energy efficiency of 62.05% and an exergy efficiency of 64.92%, surpassing the performance of benchmark systems by 10.59% and 10.99%, respectively. Furthermore, the system’s annual specific carbon dioxide emission rate stands at a commendable 0.3131 kg/kWh over its operational lifespan, underscoring its superiority and reinforcing its potential as a leading solution in the ongoing battle against the energy crisis.