Thermodynamic performance prediction of an advanced energy system integrated with a thermoelectric generator under various operating conditions

Abstract

• Hybrid system combining solar, biomass, ORC, PEM electrolyzer, and TEG analyzed. • System reached 53.82% energy and 46.93% exergy efficiency, showing strong performance. • TEG improved exergy but raised cost by 17%, revealing an efficiency–cost trade-off. • Exergy destructions mainly occur in biomass boiler (46%) and solar collector (23%). This study presents a comprehensive thermo-economic analysis of an integrated multi-generation energy system comprising a solar collector, a biomass-fueled boiler, a modified organic Rankine cycle, and a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer, with a thermoelectric generator (TEG) integrated to enhance system efficiency. The system was modeled and analyzed using thermodynamic and economic simulation techniques, with parametric studies conducted to assess the influence of key variables on system performance. The analysis identified turbine inlet and outlet pressures, solar radiation, and biomass flow rate as the most significant parameters affecting system outputs. The integrated system achieved energy and exergy efficiencies of 53.82% and 46.93%, respectively. Exergy destruction was primarily associated with the biomass boiler (46%) and the solar collector (23%). Although the TEG improved the system’s exergetic performance, it increased the total cost by 17%. The findings emphasize a trade-off between enhanced efficiency and higher capital expenditure when incorporating thermoelectric generation in multi-generation energy systems