Enhancing economic viability: Optimal integration of an absorption power cycle for enhanced financial performance in flame-assisted fuel cells

In the realm of energy economics, where financial considerations are intertwined with policy imperatives, there is a pressing need for advanced power generation technologies, given the escalating CO2 emissions and global warming concerns. Flame-assisted Fuel Cells (FFCs) have surfaced as a promising innovation with several advantages; however, their low electrical efficiency remains a critical concern. A strategic approach is proposed to enhance FFC efficiency by effectively utilizing waste heat through the integration of an Absorption Power Cycle (APC). A comprehensive modeling encompassing exergy, environmental impact, financial factors, and policy alignment was executed, coupled with tri-criteria optimization to identify optimal operational conditions. Through a comparative analysis of the FFC/APC integrated system against the standalone FFC, considering varying operational parameters and optimal configurations, it is shown that despite incurring additional costs, the incorporation of the APC unit falls short of fully compensating for the supplementary power generation expenses. As a result, the combined cycle yields higher electricity costs compared to the standalone FFC. Nonetheless, the integrated system presents a significant increase in exergy efficiency, along with a reduction in CO2 emissions. This integration not only addresses energy efficiency and environmental concerns but also aligns with the broader objectives of transparency and sustainability in capital markets. These compelling advantages may position the integrated plant as a preferable choice among energy economists, policy makers, and environmental advocates, even considering the higher initial capital outlay, due to its alignment with broader economic, environmental, and policy objectives.