Performance of a combined solar heating system for residential applications in Greece

Abstract

Combined solar heating is an emerging technology that offers the potential for realising more efficient use of solar thermal energy in order to cover space heating and domestic hot-water loads. This paper is focused on small-scale applications of single-family residential dwellings in Greece. A system-level model was developed and validated. The model was exercised to evaluate strategies for optimal design and operation of solar combisystems (SCSs), using a range of performance criteria as objective functions for optimisation. The effect of SCS design and operating variables on steady-state system performance has been investigated. System design and operation optimisation has been performed through the integration and synthesis of system-level modelling with system optimal design, optimisation, and annual simulation studies to provide a comprehensive assessment.

Keywords:

• combined heating
• solar combisystems
• fractional savings