Analysis of solar thermal energy systems for space and water heating

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

The objectives of the proposed research are to: improve the modelling of solar energy components and systems, and determine the key design and operational factors that affect their technical and economical feasibility; illustrate the effects of typical Canadian load and climatic conditions on component and system performance; identify promising solar thermal technologies; and develop new system configurations for use in heating and cooling applications. Efforts will be focused in three research areas: 1) the study of thermal energy storage for solar domestic hot water applications accounting for health and safety recommendations related to the contamination of the mains potable water supply and protection from Legionellosis; 2) the design and integration of solar combi-systems for space and water heating (considering Canadian climate and load conditions) and their integration with conventional building systems; and 3) the analysis of the impact of large-scale implementation of solar thermal systems on electric utility peak loads for both potable water and space heating applications and the development of advanced control strategies to maximize the displacement of peak loads. The approach used for this study will consist of system and component level numerical modelling supported by experimental analysis. The computer modelling developed within this research program will assist in the optimization and integration of new solar thermal technologies with conventional heating and cooling systems, and support industry and government initiatives to accelerate the use of solar energy in buildings. The research program will also develop new components and systems suitable for Canadian conditions. In an effort to reduce utility peak demand associated with space and water heating energy loads, new control strategies will be established. The proposed work will increase the technical and economic feasibility of solar energy systems and reduce fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, graduate students involved in this program will receive fundamental training in both experimental and numerical fields and produce new knowledge that will be disseminated through peer-reviewed literature.