New publication from the SUNLAB: Energy Reports

In a recent paper first-authored by PhD candidate Milad Nouri, researchers from the University of Ottawa and Kyungpook National University in South Korea propose an integrative system driven by airborne wind and photovoltaics (PV) to produce power, liquid nitrogen, and liquid carbon dioxide. The study aims to harness the strengths of both energy sources to create a more efficient and sustainable solution for energy production and the generation of on-demand substances.

Airborne wind energy (AWE) systems have emerged as cost-effective and sustainable solutions which have not yet been coupled with solar technologies and integrated power plants for such uses. This combination can harness stronger and more stable wind energy while decreasing system costs and power intermittency. The proposed system combines seven subsystems, including AWE, PV, air separation unit, oxyfuel power plant, absorption refrigeration, a nitrogen liquefaction process, and organic Rankine cycle (ORC) to simultaneously generate power, liquid nitrogen, and liquid carbon dioxide. An exergy analysis highlights that the total exergy efficiency of the integrated structure reaches 90.21 % and the greatest energy losses occur in the heat exchangers. Additionally, an exergoeconomic analysis indicates that the majority of capital costs are associated with compressors and turbines, underscoring the need to optimize these components for cost-effectiveness.  This integrated approach not only aims for efficient energy production but also enhances the overall sustainability of the system.

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M. Nouri, M. Kavgic, K. Hinzer, and A. B. Owolabi, Exergy and exergoeconomic analysis of a hybrid airborne wind and solar energy system for power, liquid nitrogen and carbon dioxide production, Energy Reports 12, 2123-2143 (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.egyr.2024.08.006