Method to evaluate a heat and cold distribution in collective buildings with decentralised booster heat pumps

The development and use of more energy-efficient heating and cooling systems is required in order to secure a sustainable energy supply. In this respect, a myriad of concepts are being developed. The combined distribution circuit (CDC) of centralized heating at lower temperatures (ca. 20 to 30°C) or cooling and decentralized booster heat pumps (BHP) for the production of domestic hot water (DHW) is such a concept, notably one of a collective heating and cooling system for apartment buildings. Although certain studies have demonstrated that the use of BHP results in potential energy savings, no energetic evaluation of the BHP in a CDC is available. In order to analyse all concept components a simulation environment in Matlab has been adapted. Therefore, new models are developed. This research compares the concept to a classic CDC with a supply temperature of at least 60°C heated by a central boiler. Moreover, the possible energy recuperations of this concept are quantified. This research has shown that a CDC at lower distribution temperatures with BHP can achieve a total system efficiency of 334% on a yearly basis. Moreover, reducing the CO2-emmisions with 55% is possible in comparison to a classic CDC. Thanks to the configuration of the heat interface unit (HIU), the BHP extracts between 10,2% to 31,5% of the total evaporator heat directly out of the apartment during summer. This study proofs that the concept of a CDC with BHP can contribute to decarbonizing the heat (and cooling) production in apartment buildings, while maintaining the desired comfort.

Publication year:2021

Keywords:P1 Proceeding

Accessibility:Closed