Techno-economic analysis of green energy resources for power generation & direct use by preserving near-wellbore geothermal gradient

ENERGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT(2023)

Cited 1|Views4
No score
Abstract
Closed-loop fluid circulation in wellbores has gained considerable attention for harnessing the earth's thermal energy. Recent studies with analytical and numerical models show that geothermal gradient and well depth constitute the two most consequential variables in fluid output temperature at the surface. This study presents a new strategy for managing geothermal-gradient cooling to ensure more prolonged operation by adopting another energy source, such as solar or wind, with a day/night cycle over the years. In other words, the fluid circulation will occur at night, while the solar or wind source will operate in the daytime. Well-depth and geothermal gradients dictate which geographic area provides the best opportunity for power generation or hot water pro-duction to meet various industrial needs. Economic tools, such as Net Present Value and Levelized Cost of Electricity, helped gauge their strengths and limitations, thereby offering business decisions objectively. Considering a 20-year power generation period, this study provides some pragmatic lessons. For example, retaining the near-wellbore geothermal gradient is essential for assuring about 130 degrees C for the binary cycle. We can attain this objective with a 12-h fluid-circulation cycle by juxtaposing a second well or a solar/wind source for a day/night cycle. Also, besides being a safety net, a power grid can aid the economic value proposition in this energy-transition phase. The generation of hot water for direct industrial usage for low-geothermal prospects also becomes economically viable, particularly in repurposing abandoned wells. These industries include food and agriculture, requiring 60 to 85 degrees C.
More
Translated text
Key words
Harnessing thermal energy,Fluid circulation,Solar energy,Combined thermal,solar,wind energy strategy,Power and hot-water generation
AI Read Science
Must-Reading Tree
Example
Generate MRT to find the research sequence of this paper
Chat Paper
Summary is being generated by the instructions you defined