Geothermal Powerplant Performance Optimation Analysis

Abstract

Geothermal is one type of renewable energy that has been used in various power plants in Indonesia. Geothermal is a more reliable option than other renewable energy sources to meet electricity needs. Electricity supply companies strive to maintain and increase production to meet consumer needs. Maintenance is also aimed at returning the system to its original condition so that it can function properly, extend the life of the machine, and minimize damage. In order to obtain optimal electrical capacity, good efficiency of the production process is needed by paying attention to the performance of each unit. In order to obtain optimal electrical capacity, good efficiency of the production process is needed by paying attention to the performance of each unit. This study utilized operational data from a Geothermal Power Plant (PLTP). The study was preceded by data collection and the development of formulas for calculating the performance of power plants. Observations in the field and studies of existing reference literature were used to collect data. The results of this research will obtain the optimum power obtained after the optimization process, the right working fluid for the optimization process, and the binary cycle method that can be applied in PLTP. The results indicate that implementing binary cycle technology with suitable working fluids can significantly increase enthalpy at the PLTP, leading to optimized power output. For instance, a 12% increase in steam mass flow rate was observed after adjusting flash pressure at PLTP Ulubelu Unit 3 & 4, and PLTP Lahendong Unit 5-6 saw a 15% increase in turbine output due to improved steam quality. The Hellisheiði geothermal plant also demonstrated an efficiency increase from 14% to 18.5% with the addition of a binary unit.