Performance assessment and multi-objective optimization of a multi-generation system based on solar tower power: A case study in Dubai, UAE

This paper designs and evaluates an innovative multigeneration system based on a heliostat solar field that is a combination of closed Brayton cycle, absorption refrigeration cycle, humidification and dehumidifica-tion desalination, and proton exchange membrane electrolyzer. Thermodynamic and exergoeconomic analyses are performed for the performance assessment. Moreover, the grey wolf optimization algorithm in different multi-objective optimization scenarios is implemented to obtain the optimum operating conditions and desirable performances. According to the obtained results, the simulation at the base operating conditions is led to generating 8.32 MW of power, 3.16 kg/s of freshwater, 8.37 MW of cooling load, and 0.22 kg/h of hydrogen with 39.15% exergy efficiency and 8.81 $/GJ sum unit cost of products. Moreover, the lowest payback period and maximum profitability are related to the electricity price of 0.07 $/kWh, with a payback period of 2.93 years. Also, at the optimum point, the exergetic efficiency with SUCP and freshwater production rate are considered obtained to be 45.09%, 8.27 $/GJ, and 3.89 kg/s. Finally, the proposed system performance was evaluated for a case study of Dubai, UAE. It is resulted that the maximum net power obtained in May during a yearly operation by about 7.40 MW with exergetic efficiency of 38.70%. (C) 2022 Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.