EXERGOECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF A SOLAR ASSISTED ORGANIC RANKINE CYCLE Case Study of Mardin, Turkey

Abstract

Escalating concerns over dwindling energy resources and environmental issues from unsustainable use and external energy dependence highlight the need to optimize existing energy sources. Harnessing renewable energy is crucial for minimizing environmental impact and reducing reliance on external suppliers. Integrating renewable energy technologies into existing systems offers a promising path to sustainable and efficient energy use. This study presents a solar-assisted ORC system designed for Mardin Province, based on long-term solar radiation data. The system uses parabolic collectors to capture solar thermal energy, stored using Therminol VP-1. This stored energy drives the ORC system throughout the day, using R-365mfc as the working fluid. The study integrates exergy and economic analyses to evaluate the system’s performance and cost-effectiveness, providing a framework for similar renewable energy systems. The solar-assisted ORC system is designed to harness solar energy efficiently, contributing to sustainable energy solutions in high solar potential regions like Mardin Province. Extensive data analysis evaluates the system’s energy, exergy, and exergoeconomic performance, and determines optimal turbine inlet and condenser pressures. The system’s net power output ranges from 29.927-201.597 kW, with efficiencies from 3.74% to 16.079% and exergy efficiencies from 4.627% to 18.977%. These results confirm the system’s suitability for sustainable energy generation in Mardin Province. © 2025 Published by the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia.