Wed, 17 July, 2024
GeoSmart Decision Support System - Advancing Sustainable Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy is a leading renewable energy source, providing a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional power generation. To fully harness the potential of geothermal energy, a comprehensive approach is needed, addressing efficiency, flexibility, and economic and environmental impacts. The GeoSmart project offers innovative solutions to optimise the potential of geothermal energy and introduces a tool; the GeoSmart Decision Support System (DSS), which provides GeoSmart technologies solutions, including sustainability.
The GeoSmart Project - A Vision for Sustainable Energy: The GeoSmart project aims to revolutionise geothermal energy solutions by implementing innovative Thermal Energy Storage (TES) systems, Scaling Reduction System (SRS), and Adiabatic Cooling System (ACS) technologies. The project enhances the flexibility and reliability of existing geothermal power plants by utilising Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in the PCM Storage system and Water Thermocline. The SRS and ACS further boost plant efficiency. GeoSmart seeks to shift the paradigm of geothermal power plant operations through innovative technologies and knowledge-based decision-making.
Introducing the GeoSmart Decision Support System (DSS): The GeoSmart DSS is a comprehensive platform for informed decision-making in geothermal energy management. This web-based application integrated models, algorithms, and decision rules to provide a holistic framework for geothermal energy optimisation. With an intuitive user interface, the DSS allows geothermal power plant operators and developers to efficiently navigate the complexities of system design, operation, cost analysis, and environmental impact assessment.
DSS Core Components - Flexibility and Efficiency Solutions: The GeoSmart DSS is structured into two main categories; Flexibility Solutions and Efficiency Enhancement Solutions. Each category includes modules designed to address specific aspects of geothermal power plants, focusing on financial and environmental optimisation.
Flexibility Solutions: At the core of Flexibility Solutions are the Thermal Energy Storage (TES) modules, which include PCM and Water Thermocline storage systems. These modules provide dynamic and efficient energy management. The PCM module utilises the unique properties of phase change materials to store and release geothermal energy effectively, flexibly optimising thermal energy use. The Water Thermocline module offers an advanced approach to thermal energy storage, allowing users to optimise charging and discharging parameters for increased energy flexibility.
Efficiency Enhancement Solutions: Efficiency Enhancement Solutions aim to maximise the performance of geothermal power plants using innovative technologies. The Scaling Reduction System module tackles scaling issues with components such as the Scaling Heat Exchanger, Scaling Reactor, and Retention Tank, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted plant operation and increased plant efficiency. During summer, the ambient temperature impacts cooling and overall plant efficiency. The Adiabatic Cooling System module, guided by weather data and cooling fan parameters, optimises cooling strategies and increases plant efficiency.
Optimisation for Informed Decisions - Integrating Cost Analysis and Environmental Impact Assessment: What sets the GeoSmart DSS apart is its inherent optimisation capabilities. It conducts cost and environmental impact analyses for each GeoSmart innovation, including TES, SRS, and the ACS. The environmental impact assessment covers effects on climate change (carbon footprint), human health, ecosystem quality, and resources, evaluating the overall environmental footprint of the GeoSmart components. Financial metrics such as Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE), Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Payback Period (PBP), and Return on Investment (ROI) are seamlessly integrated with ecological considerations. This comprehensive evaluation empowers users to make decisions that balance economic viability with environmental stewardship. The GeoSmart DSS goes beyond conventional decision-support systems by guiding stakeholders toward energy solutions that harmonise fiscal prudence and environmental responsibility. By integrating these critical optimisation components, the GeoSmart DSS represents a paradigm shift, leading geothermal power plant operations toward a more sustainable future.
The GeoSmart DSS Workflow: As we explore the GeoSmart DSS, it's crucial to understand how the modules interact and contribute to the decision-making process. The flowchart below demonstrates the interconnectedness of the modules within the DSS.
Figure 1. Flowchart of GeoSmart DSS Modules
This visual representation outlines the journey from Plant Characterisation to Flexibility Solutions and Efficiency Enhancement Solutions. Each step then undergoes cost and environmental optimisations, highlighting the seamless integration that underpins the GeoSmart DSS.
Conclusions - A Sustainable Future: The GeoSmart DSS exemplifies the transformative power of technology and innovation in advancing geothermal energy. By offering a comprehensive platform that integrates GeoSmart project cutting-edge innovations, knowledge-based models, data-driven analysis, and environmental awareness, the DSS empowers stakeholders to make decisions beyond short-term gains and foster a sustainable energy journey. In an era of increasing emphasis on renewable resources, the GeoSmart DSS sets the standard for geothermal power plants, showcasing flexibility, efficiency and a solid commitment to environmental responsibility.
(Article published courtesy of TVS)
This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme. Grant agreement 818576.