Optimizing Exergy Efficiency in Integrated Energy System: A Planning Study Based on Industrial Waste Heat Recovery

Integrated energy systems are crucial technologies that promote the shift to sustainable energy and enhance energy efficiency. Recovering low-grade industrial waste heat to power an integrated energy system enhances its total energy efficiency, making it the optimal way to optimize the energy structure. This study has developed a novel integrated energy system planning framework for industrial waste heat recovery and utilization, drawing on exergy theory. Addresses a missing aspect in the analysis of exergy network characteristics within integrated energy system planning contexts. We have developed a more detailed planning scheme by analyzing the flow and conversion of exergy in electricity and heat networks. An in-depth examination of exergy conversion and transfer processes in integrated energy systems. The simulation results demonstrate that IES planning based on exergy theory can reduce the total exergy loss of IES to achieve energy saving compared to the energy point of view. Moreover, compared to a planning scheme that does not incorporate industrial waste heat, this study has successfully reduced the system’s total energy loss by 27.3% and decreased total operating costs by 20.6%. Consequently, the energy-saving objective has been efficiently accomplished, resulting in significant economic and environmental benefits.