Advances and challenges in ORC systems modeling for low grade thermal energy recovery

In this paper, the authors review the most recent advances and challenges for the exploitation of low grade thermal energy resources, with particular emphasis on ORC systems, based on information gathered from the technical literature. An outline of the issues related to ORC system modeling is also presented, and some guidelines drawn to develop an effective and powerful simulation tool. As a summary conclusion of the revised models, a simulation tool of an ORC system suitable for the exploitation of low grade thermal energy is introduced.