Enhancement of gas turbine performance using renewable energies

Abstract

This master's thesis explores enhancing gas turbine performance by integrating renewable energy through Earth-to-Air Heat Exchangers (EAHE), emphasizing the role of renewable energy in advancing conventional energy systems and establishing a basis for future research. The study introduces two critical models: the EAHE model, which uses the energy balance principle, and the gas turbine model, which determines output power and efficiency. These models are essential for understanding thermal dynamics and potential efficiency improvements from renewable energy integration. Results indicate that incorporating EAHE boosts efficiency and cuts fuel consumption, especially in hot climates or during summer, with key findings showing that higher thermal conductivity (λ) and soil thermal resistance (R_soil) significantly lower outlet air temperature, and lower air velocities (u) are more effective in reducing outlet air temperature