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Optimal design and operation of distributed low-carbon energy technologies in commercial buildings

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  • Acha, Salvador
  • Mariaud, Arthur
  • Shah, Nilay
  • Markides, Christos N.

Abstract

Commercial buildings are large energy consumers and opportunities exist to improve the way they produce and consume electricity, heating and cooling. If energy system integration is feasible, this can lead to significant reductions in energy consumption and emissions. In this context, this work expands on an existing integrated Technology Selection and Operation (TSO) optimisation model for distributed energy systems (DES). The model considers combined heat and power (CHP) and organic Rankine cycle (ORC) engines, absorption chillers, photovoltaic panels and batteries with the aim of guiding decision makers in making attractive investments that are technically feasible and environmentally sound. A retrofit case study of a UK food distribution centre is presented to showcase the benefits and trade-offs that integrated energy systems present by contrasting outcomes when different technologies are considered. Results show that the preferred investment options select a CHP coupled either to an ORC unit or to an absorption chiller. These solutions provide appealing internal rates of return of 28–30% with paybacks within 3.5–3.7 years, while also decarbonising the building by 95–96% (if green gas is used to power the site). Overall, the TSO model provides valuable insights allowing stakeholders to make well-informed decisions when evaluating complex integrated energy systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Acha, Salvador & Mariaud, Arthur & Shah, Nilay & Markides, Christos N., 2018. "Optimal design and operation of distributed low-carbon energy technologies in commercial buildings," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 142(C), pages 578-591.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:142:y:2018:i:c:p:578-591
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2017.10.066
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    14. Urban, Kristof L. & Scheller, Fabian & Bruckner, Thomas, 2021. "Suitability assessment of models in the industrial energy system design," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 137(C).
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    16. Aziz, Faraz & Salim, Mohammad Saad & Kim, Man-Hoe, 2019. "Performance analysis of high temperature cascade organic Rankine cycle coupled with water heating system," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 170(C), pages 954-966.
    17. Zhou, Hou Sheng & Passey, Rob & Bruce, Anna & Sproul, Alistair B., 2021. "Aggregated impact of coordinated commercial-scale battery energy storage systems on network peak demand, and financial outcomes," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 144(C).
    18. Acha, Salvador & Le Brun, Niccolo & Damaskou, Maria & Fubara, Tekena Craig & Mulgundmath, Vinay & Markides, Christos N. & Shah, Nilay, 2020. "Fuel cells as combined heat and power systems in commercial buildings: A case study in the food-retail sector," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 206(C).
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    20. Lu, Mengxue & Lai, Joseph, 2020. "Review on carbon emissions of commercial buildings," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 119(C).
    21. Li, Haoran & Zhang, Chenghui & Sun, Bo, 2022. "Deep integration planning of sustainable energies in district energy system and distributed energy station," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 154(C).

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