The potential for reducing TPP water consumption through the use of heat pumps

Abstract

Largest part of consumed water resources in Russian Federation is related to energy sector; accordingly, we need to develop measures to ensure their rational use. This paper analyzes the potential for reducing water consumption of thermal power plants by applying heat pumps in the condenser cooling system of a steam turbine plant. The calculations were performed for two CCGT-450 power units with three main options for technical water supply systems. The greatest environmental and economic effects are provided by the use of heat pumps at TPPs with a once-through water supply system. Utilization of all low-grade heat of the condenser cooling system of a steam turbine plant is irrational due to an increase in energy consumption for TPP own needs. With a further growth of tax rates for water intake from surface water bodies, positive effect of application of heat pumps in the condenser cooling system of a steam turbine plant will increase by an order of magnitude.