Exergoeconomic Optimization of Low Temperature Solar Driven Organic Rankine Cycle

One of the most promising technologies in the field of distributed energy is the use of installations operating on the so-called organic Rankine cycle (ORC). The ORC technology is applicable for the utilization of low-potential thermal energy of natural or man-made origin. At the same time, in each specific case of using ORC systems, it is important to carry out technical and economic optimization of the project. In this paper, it is proposed to estimate the cost of electricity production by an ORC power unit using an exergoeconomical model. To optimize the system parameters in order to minimize the electricity cost rate, the method of a genetic algorithm is used. The paper presents the results of optimization of the parameters of the ORC system, which includes a solar collector in combination with an ORC power unit. R245fa is used as the working fluid in this analysis. With the help of a mathematical model, the electricity cost is calculated by comparing the costs for each of the components of the ORC system. For a given operating range of parameters of an ORC power unit with an electric capacity of 1.03 kW, a minimum cost rate of $0.056/(kW h) is determined. The optimal parameters of the working fluid in the ORC power unit, at which the minimum electricity cost can be obtained, are also determined.