Abstract
In the context of the energy transition policies desired by the EU, the objectives set by 2030 include the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the achievement of greater energy savings and the increase in the use of renewable energy. This study, after an analysis concerning the Italian building stock, aims to highlight a possible first step towards achieving these objectives: the renewal of centralized heating systems in multi-dwelling buildings. In fact, on the national scenario there are about 430,000 condominiums with centralized heating system built before 1990 and, therefore, possibly liable to energy efficiency. In this research a case study building was simulated using the software EnergyPlus in which a renovation of the existing heating system was modelled in the Matlab/Simulink environment with an innovative hybrid generator consisting of an air/water heat pump and a condensing boiler. The analysis of this solution, carried out for three different Italian climatic zones, highlights how significant reductions in CO2 emissions can be achieved, high energy savings in terms of primary energy use and savings regarding usage costs, thus achieving greater comfort and sustainability. In addition, an economic analysis was carried out comparing different combinations of systems with the aim of identifying the best solution for each application.
Highlights
This study aims to investigate the renewal of thermal power plants in multi-dwelling residential buildings with a view to achieving the goals set by the European Union in the field of energy performance in buildings (Directive (EU) 2018/844)
There is an average saving of 36.5% (47,500 kWh)
CO2 emissions drop by 36.5% (9,500 kgCO2)
Summary
This study aims to investigate the renewal of thermal power plants in multi-dwelling residential buildings with a view to achieving the goals set by the European Union in the field of energy performance in buildings (Directive (EU) 2018/844). This study analyses the energy optimization of a centralized heating system, using as a generator, a hybrid system consisting of an air/water heat pump and a condensing boiler, in multi-dwelling buildings. For this reason, a case-study building consisting of ten apartments, and inhabited by thirty people, has been modelled with an envelope from the 1960s, not thermally insulated. The economic analysis certifies that there is significant reduction in the initial investment (compared to a stand-alone heat pump) and reduced payback times thanks to the actual Italian incentive (Ecobonus 65% or Superbonus 110%)
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