Economic Performance of Geothermal Power Plants Using the Kalina Cycle Technology
- Key words
- Power Generation; Economics; Kalina Cycle; Binary Systems; Rankine Cycle; Working Fluid; Thermodynamics; Efficiency; Ammonia; Water Mixture; Capital Cost; Rate of Return; Cash Flow; Interest Coverage; Cost Per KW
- Conference
- Geothermal Resources Council Transactions
- Year
- 1990
- Session
- Power plant design and operation; Binary cycle power generat
- Language
- English
Abstract
The economics of geothermal power using liquid dominated resources in the 300°F to 350°F (149°C to 177°C) range is substantially improved using an ammonia/water Kalina cycle, designated as System 12 (KCS12). The best features of flash steam systems and the binary Rankine cycle are combined to produce a plant design that is 40 percent less expensive per unit of installed capacity than current commercial binary plants. A plant design is presented for a 30 MW unit. Plant costs are developed using vendor quotations and factored estimates for construction and installation. Based on the unit costs of capacity, i.e. $/kw, project returns to the equity investor are presented.
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