Assessment of energy, economic and environmental aspects of the methanol-fueled Allam cycle in cross-border renewable energy supply chain
Journal
Energy Conversion and Management
Journal Volume
316
Start Page
118854
ISSN
0196-8904
Date Issued
2024-09-15
Author(s)
DOI
10.1016/j.enconman.2024.118854
Abstract
This study addresses the challenge of uneven renewable energy distribution by proposing a renewable energy supply chain using MeOH-fueled Allam Cycle for power generation. With the escalating demand for renewable energy, regions with a surplus can produce MeOH using green H2 and recycled CO2, which can then be transported to energy-deficient regions. In these importing regions, MeOH is used for electricity generation via the Allam Cycle, with captured CO2 recycled for MeOH synthesis, creating a closed-loop carbon system. This study evaluates the energy, economic and environmental aspects of this supply chain. It projects that electricity costs in importing regions could decrease from USD 233.02/MWhimpt to USD 101.33/MWhimpt, and MeOH costs could drop from USD 585.39/t to USD 173.40/t, assuming a reduction in renewable electricity costs in exporting regions from USD 45/MWhexpt to USD 15/MWhexpt. Comparative analysis shows acceptable energy conversion and transportation costs, with an electricity conversion rate of 30.65 %-37.07 %. This design offers a promising, cost-effective solution for a sustainable future, with the onshore wind supply chain exhibiting lower emissions of 111.3–97.2 kg/MWhimpt.
Subjects
Allam cycle
Carbon capture
Green hydrogen
Life cycle assessment
Methanol
Renewable energy storage
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Type
journal article