Impact of a grid-connected PV system application in a bioclimatic house toward the zero energy status in the north of Algeria

Abstract

Nowadays, it is well recognized at the international level that the building sector is one of the biggest energy consumers, which made the intervention in this sector the greatest potential for energy consumption reduction and greenhouse emissions mitigation. In Algeria, building sector is responsible of more than 40% of the final energy consumption. Solar energy systems integrated in buildings can be an important solution to this dual problem.The aim of this paper is to estimate the energy performance of a typical single-family bioclimatic house equipped with a solar heating system located in the north Algeria (Algiers) and to investigate its conversion into a zero energy house by installing a grid connected PV system.To achieve this goal, a numerical model of the bioclimatic house coupled with the solar heating system is developed and validated with experimental data. Then, the validated model is used to optimize the adequate size of the solar heating system and to determine its contribution in the production of thermal energy for both DHW preparation and space heating of the house. Finally, a PV system is sized to supply, in parallel with the utility grid, the house with electricity for lighting, appliance and auxiliary electric heater. Furthermore, an economic analysis is made to show the profitability of integration of grid connected PV and solar thermal systems in building.Results show that the conversion of a bioclimatic house into a ZEH using a grid connected PV system, in the north of Algeria weather conditions, present high level of feasibility. However, the return on investment is very high due mainly to the high cost of solar energy components and the very low costs of conventional energy in Algeria.