CFD-based multi-location analysis of power output and LCOE for solar chimneys in arid regions of Inner Mongolia

The Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region characterized by abundant solar radiation, extended sunshine hours, and vast land areas, offers significant potential for the development of solar chimney power plants (SCPPs) to provide electricity to remote pastoral and rural areas. This study presents a year-long performance and techno-economic evaluation of SCPPs at six representative sites using CFD simulations (Fluent) coupled with a theoretical model. Carbon reduction benefits are also quantified under two accounting frameworks. The results show that the output power in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region is between 414 - 460 kW. Among the sites, Bayannur achieves the highest output (52 kW), while Ejin Banner records the highest collector efficiency (31.6%). Bayannur is identified as the most suitable site, with generation capacity meeting the annual demand of approximately 135 people. In addition, by using the correlation coefficient R 2 , where the R 2 value is always greater than 0.9, the size of the Gr number can reflect the change in power. Economic analysis indicates that when considering the average lifecycle, carbon credits, and electricity revenues, the effective LCOE decreases to $0.144 - $0.172/kWh. Under a 4.1% inflation and discount rate, these values converge, highlighting the sensitivity of cost-effectiveness to financial parameters. The findings confirm the technical feasibility and long-term economic potential of SCPPs as a decentralized clean energy solution tailored to Inner Mongolia’s environmental context.