Evaluation and improvements on the flexibility and economic performance of a thermal power plant while applying carbon capture, utilization & storage

•The impact of CCUS on the flexibility of a thermal power plant is evaluated.•Solar-aided and LPT zero output schemes are proposed with high improvements on flexibility.•Economic analysis is conducted for the CCUS process in a province located in China.•Comparing the economic performance of applying CCUS under different time scenarios.•The proposed CO2-to-methanol approach yield significant economical benefits.