Hydrogen, Fuel Cell & Energy Storage

Hydrogen, Fuel Cell & Energy Storage

Thermoeconomic Analysis and Optimization of a Novel Geothermal Energy-Based Multigeneration System for Liquid Hydrogen, Hot Water, Cooling and Power Production

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Ali Eyvazi 1
Mehran Ameri 2
Mohammad Shafiey Dehaj 1
Hadi Ghaebi 3
1 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Rafsanjan, Iran
2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Shahid bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
3 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
10.22104/hfe.2025.7627.1362
Abstract
This study examines a sustainable energy framework designed for hydrogen production. It includes various components like a geothermal energy module, a Claude cycle system for hydrogen liquefaction, and a modified organic Rankine cycle. A detailed investigation into its operational features is conducted across various aspects, with its energy conversion efficiency measured using key performance indicators. The assessment of operational effectiveness was based on factors such as energy yield, exergy utilization, and economic considerations. A sensitivity analysis assesses how changes in operation affect performance. A dual-objective genetic algorithm with the TOPSIS method enhances the hydrogen production infrastructure. The system achieves an energy conversion efficiency of 45% and exergy efficiency of 53%, producing 4.88 kg of hydrogen per hour and 1,425 kW of power, with operational costs of $37.16 per hour. The Levelized Cost of Energy is 19.8 cents per kWh, while the Levelized Cost of Hydrogen is 24.39 $/kg. The energy needed for hydrogen liquefaction is reduced through a two-stage thermal management strategy.
Keywords
Geothermal energy
Claude hydrogen liquefaction cycle
Multigeneration system
Optimization
Modified organic rankine cycle
Subjects
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Hydrogen, Fuel Cell & Energy Storage
Volume 13, Issue 2
Spring 2026
Pages 149-166