Multi-Objective optimization and thermodynamic analysis of a supercritical CO2 Brayton cycle in a solar-powered multigeneration plant for net-zero emission goals

The development, design, examination, and optimization of carbon-free power generation models are essential to achieve a sustainable future with net-zero emissions. This study introduces a novel multigeneration system, uniquely combining a supercritical CO₂ Brayton cycle and a transcritical CO₂ Rankine cycle, supported by a solar parabolic trough collector. The system integrates a reverse osmosis desalination unit, enabling simultaneous production of clean water, heating, and power. A multi-objective optimization framework is implemented by the NSGA-II algorithm, coupled with the TOPSIS method, to explore and identify optimal operational conditions. The innovation lies in the comprehensive consideration of solar incident angles and their impact on system performance, a rarely addressed aspect in the literature. Detailed thermodynamic analysis highlights system performance, achieving a net power capacity of 1052 kW, freshwater generation of 90.44 m3/h, and hot water generation of 1614 kW. The optimized results demonstrate significant improvements in overall energy (50.28 %) and exergy efficiency (22.31 %), showcasing the system’s potential as a benchmark for sustainable, zero-emission energy solutions.