Coupling Hydrodynamic and Energy Production Models for Salinity Gradient Energy Assessment in a Salt-Wedge Estuary (Strymon River, Northern Greece)

Salinity gradient energy (SGE) plants generate power from the mixing of salt water and fresh water using advanced membrane systems. In the Strymon River, under low-flow conditions, a salt wedge is formed, developing a two-layer stratified system, which could be used to extract SGE. In this paper, a novel study was implemented by coupling a 3D hydrodynamic model simulating the salt wedge flow, with the SGE model which assesses the net energy produced by a 1 MW SGE plant. Two scenarios were followed: (a) the optimal scenario, operating throughout the year by mixing salt water from the sea (38.1 g/L) and fresh water (0.1 g/L) from the river to produce 4.15 GWh/yr, and (b) the seasonal scenario, utilizing the salinity difference of the salt wedge. Results show that the daily net SGE production varies between 0.30 and 10.90 MWh/day, in accordance with the salinity difference (AS(sw) similar to 15-30 g/L). Additionally, a retrospective assessment (from 1981 to 2010) of the annual and seasonal net energy production was conducted. This analysis illustrates that the salt-wedge formation (spring to late summer) coincides with the period of increased regional electricity demand. In the future, the emerging SGE could serve as a decentralized renewable energy source, enhancing energy security in the region.

Automated summary

This study investigates the feasibility of utilizing salinity difference to generate energy in the Strymon River by combining a hydrodynamic model and an SGE model. The results show that the SGE production varies with the salinity difference. A retrospective assessment indicates that the formation of the salt wedge coincides with the period of increased regional electricity demand. In the future, SGE could serve as a decentralized renewable energy source, enhancing energy security in the region.