Feasibility study of geothermal utilization of Yangbajain field in Tibet autonomous region, P.R. China

Abstract

This study investigates the feasibility of the renewable energy utilization in Tibet, which is known as the “world roof” with highest elevation and splendid natural scenery. Based on the available energy assessment and market analysis, a technical and economic feasibility study is carried out on geothermal utilization of Yangbajain field with the objective of solving both electricity shortage and lack of space heating so as to improve the Tibetan people’s living condition. The technical feasibility study is to set up thermodynamic model of proposed different power generation scenarios and long distance district heating system to analyze and optimize each scenario by using EES and Matlab programmes. Four alternative scenarios optimized for new power plant design are double flash cycle (Scenario 1), hybrid single flash and ORC cycle with isopentane as working fluid (Scenario 2), pure ORC cycle with isobutane as working fluid (Scenario 3), and hybrid single flash and Kalina cycle (Scenario 4). The conceptual design of district heating system with about 90km distance from Yangbajain to Lhasa is as well carried out. The results indicate that all power cycles are technically feasible at different efficiency and heating system can be put up under appropriate design and construction. A financial viability evaluation is performed for all scenarios using engineering economic Present Worth (PW) value analysis method with objective to figure ....