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Optimizing cooling, power, freshwater, and hydrogen production in a dual-fuel gas turbine cycle: A multi-layered approach of waste heat recovery with biomass and methane integration

Author

Listed:
  • Chen, Feng
  • Zhang, Wei
  • Xuan, Jiamin
  • Lou, Min
  • Cai, Jie
  • Wu, Kaiming
  • Zhang, Hongbin

Abstract

This study proposes a novel dual-fuel gas turbine cycle utilizing gasified biomass and methane, integrated with multiple waste heat recovery systems to produce power, cooling, hydrogen, and freshwater. The system incorporates a Kalina cycle, steam Rankine cycle, humidification-dehumidification unit, absorption refrigeration cycle, and a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer. The design follows a multi-layer waste heat recovery approach: cooled intake air powers the Kalina cycle, while the steam Rankine cycle drives the absorption refrigeration unit. Exergy analysis identifies the gasifier as the main source of exergy destruction (5974 kW), whereas the air turbine incurs the highest cost rate (594,121.1 $/year). The cost rates for power, cooling, freshwater, and hydrogen are estimated at 0.042 $/kWh, 0.004 $/kWh, 1.18 $/m3, and 2.98 $/kg, respectively. At optimal conditions, the system generates 15,845.97 kW of power, 6056.03 kW of cooling (≈1722.3 tons of refrigeration), 3.20 kg/s of freshwater, and 0.0156 kg/s of hydrogen, achieving a payback period of 1.31 years. The overall exergy efficiency is 37.69 %. Sensitivity analysis reveals significant performance dependence on the methane-to-biomass ratio and combustion temperature. Results demonstrate that strategic integration of thermally matched subsystems enhances energy efficiency and economic feasibility, making the system a promising solution for sustainable and diversified energy production.

Suggested Citation

  • Chen, Feng & Zhang, Wei & Xuan, Jiamin & Lou, Min & Cai, Jie & Wu, Kaiming & Zhang, Hongbin, 2026. "Optimizing cooling, power, freshwater, and hydrogen production in a dual-fuel gas turbine cycle: A multi-layered approach of waste heat recovery with biomass and methane integration," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 256(PD).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:256:y:2026:i:pd:s0960148125018671
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.124203
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    References listed on IDEAS

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