Optimization of a novel polygeneration system integrating photovoltaic/thermal collectors, solar assisted heat pump, adsorption chiller and electrical energy storage

Abstract

In this paper a model for the dynamic simulation and the optimization of a novel solar polygeneration system is presented. The system is based on a flat-plate photovoltaic/thermal collector solar field, coupled with water-to-water electric heat pump/chiller, adsorption chiller and electrical energy storage technologies. The system is modelled to supply space heating or cooling, domestic hot water and electrical energy. The produced electrical energy is self-consumed by both user and system auxiliary equipment, stored and/or supplied to the grid. For the simulation purpose, a detailed building model and a comprehensive electrical energy model, taking into account the electrical energy storage and exchange with the grid, are implemented. This paper is a further development of a recent work previously presented by the authors, where measured electrical demands of real users are used in the simulation and a comprehensive energy-economic analysis is performed. The present paper deals with a comprehensive sensitivity analysis and an optimization of the polygenerative system under investigation. In particular, energy and economic objective functions are used and the optimal set of design parameters are calculated, using the computer-based Design of Experiment procedure and the Generalized Search Method. The main effects plots and contour plots are discussed for the selected objective functions, while the optimum values of selected parameters, obtained with both optimization methods, are compared.