Improving energy enterprise efficiency: Multi-aspect assessment and financially-driven optimization of a tri-generation plant

This research delves into a comprehensive financial analysis and optimization of a tri-generation plant that in-tegrates power generation, cooling capacity, and hydrogen production. The plant design encompasses an organic flash cycle, a two-phase ejector, and methanol steam reforming. Our investigation extends beyond thermody-namic evaluations, encompassing a thorough assessment of economic factors including energy economics, exergy-based financial metrics, and sustainability considerations. Moreover, we calculate critical financial in-dicators such as payback period and levelized costs to determine the economic feasibility of the tri-generation system. The study showcases the tri-generation system's ability to yield 32.58 kW of power, 246.5 kW of cooling capacity, and 12.56 kg/h of hydrogen in the base case configuration. Optimal energetic and exergetic efficiencies, along with a calculated payback period of 3.92 years, underscore the financial viability of the system. Through meticulous parametric studies, we uncover the intricate interplay between methanol molar ratios, reactor temperatures, and overall economic performance. This comprehensive financial profiling, when disclosed, could enhance regulatory oversight and shape financial supervision policies within the energy sector.