- Energy, Sustainable Building Design, Power System, Renewable energy resources, Renewable Energy Systems, Evaporative Cooling, and 27 moreRenewable Energy, Energy saving systems, SOFC, Fuel Cells, Solid Oxide Fuel Cells, Solar Energy, Energy efficiency, Energy Efficiency Buildings, Sustainable Energy, Energy and Environment, Alternative Energy, Building Integrated Renewable Energy, Building Energy Simulation, Solar Energy Technology, Green Building, Building Integrated Solar Energy Technologies, Sustainable Building Materials, Energy Efficiency in Buildings, Net Zero Energy Buildings, Energy Efficient Building Envelope Systems, Measurement and Evaluation, Instrumentation and Measurement Science, Modeling and Simulation, System Modeling and Simulation, Dynamic Thermal Simulation of Buildings, ANSYS FLUENT, and TRNSYS simulationedit
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In this paper a novel dynamic energy performance simulation model for the Phase Change Materials (PCM) analysis is presented. The model is implemented in a suitable computer code, written in MatLab and called DETECt, for complete building... more
In this paper a novel dynamic energy performance simulation model for the Phase Change Materials (PCM) analysis is presented. The model is implemented in a suitable computer code, written in MatLab and called DETECt, for complete building energy analyses. In the presented model, the “effective specific heat” method is implemented. Here, the specific heat of each PCM layer changes as a function of the system phase and temperature in both melting and freezing processes. A model validation is carried out by comparing numerical results vs. measurements obtained at Solar Laboratory of Concordia University (Montreal, Canada). The simulation model allows exploring the potential of PCMs to increase the thermal inertia of building envelopes and to assess the effects/ weight of several design parameters (e.g. PCMs melting temperature, etc.) on the building heating and cooling energy demand and on the related thermal comfort. In order to show the potentiality of the presented simulation model,...
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The efficiency of ventilation and evaporative cooling systems usually depend on the system configuration, air distribution and cattle layout. From a thermo-fluid dynamics point of view, local recirculation zones could be present, reducing... more
The efficiency of ventilation and evaporative cooling systems usually depend on the system configuration, air distribution and cattle layout. From a thermo-fluid dynamics point of view, local recirculation zones could be present, reducing significantly the advantages of evaporative cooling. Furthermore, while for hot and dry climates such advantages are in general quite evident, in Italy the temperate and moderately humid summers make uncertain the cost-benefits ratio. Previous results show that such systems are convenient even for temperate climates. In order to get an efficient implementation an optimal location of EC panels is required. From this point of view a double target is required: i) to reduce the indoor dry bulb temperature; ii) to keep low the increasing humidity due to the direct evaporative cooling effect.
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ABSTRACT Nowadays the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation represents an important tool for the performance analysis of the Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems. In this paper the air velocity field in proximity of a... more
ABSTRACT Nowadays the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation represents an important tool for the performance analysis of the Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems. In this paper the air velocity field in proximity of a freestanding flanged slot and a circular opening is investigated by such approach. The numerically calculated velocities both in centreline and off the hoods axes are compared with the velocities obtained by the most popular experimental and theoretical formulas available in literature. Simple suggested equations with a common mathematical structure are provided for all the numerically simulated velocity trends.
Nowadays in the European framework the good practices for high-performing buildings realization and retrofitting are copious, but what emerges is the lack of information and data sharing about them. There are indeed no official sources... more
Nowadays in the European framework the good practices for high-performing buildings realization and retrofitting are copious, but what emerges is the lack of information and data sharing about them. There are indeed no official sources for notes deriving from this kind of buildings and, moreover, there is shortage of quantitative and comparable data. In a process oriented to a large-scale diffusion of nZEBs on the market, the existing good practices of actual case studies of highperforming buildings should be kept as market benchmarks and reveal to be precious sources of information. In the light of the above, the need of a harmonized database to collect and share data deriving from different building typologies and climatic zones plays a fundamental role. Due to the weakness of the existing databases and to the necessity of having practical guidelines to design nZEBs, at Italian level, an AiCARR teamwork is targeting the development of a design guide for nZEBs in Mediterranean regi...
The Canary Islands have great potential for the implementation of sustainable energy systems due to its availability of natural resources. The archipelago is not connected to the mainland electricity grid and the current generation system... more
The Canary Islands have great potential for the implementation of sustainable energy systems due to its availability of natural resources. The archipelago is not connected to the mainland electricity grid and the current generation system is mainly based on traditional fossil fuel. Therefore, the islands strongly dependent on fuel importations, with high costs due to logistics. Furthermore, due to the inadequate coverage of residential heating and cooling needs, the per capita energy consumption is far below the Spanish national average. This occurrence has inspired an intense debate on the current development model of the Canary Archipelago, which has led to the implementation of actions and measures aimed at achieving greater energy sustainability in the archipelago. Furthermore, at a local scale, an important investment plan has been carried out by the Spanish grid operator to ensure energy supply, to improve the system security and reliability, and to optimize the integration of...
Worldwide, the design, renovation, and sustainable management of port buildings play a crucial role for sustainability. In this framework, a computer simulation of a building’s thermal behaviour is an almost mandatory tool for making... more
Worldwide, the design, renovation, and sustainable management of port buildings play a crucial role for sustainability. In this framework, a computer simulation of a building’s thermal behaviour is an almost mandatory tool for making informed decisions. However, the development of a building energy model is a challenging task that could discourage its adoption. A possible solution would be to exploit an existing Building Information Modeling (BIM) model to automatically generate an accurate and flexible Building Energy Modeling (BEM) one. Such a method, which can substantially improve decision-making processes, still presents some issues and needs to be further investigated, as also detectable from the literature on the topic. In this framework, a novel workflow to extrapolate BIM data for energy simulation is proposed and analysed in this paper. Here, the BIM to BEM approach was tested as a useful tool for the maritime industry to improve the implementation of effective energy-savi...
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This paper focuses on a novel energy management approach for cluster of buildings connected in micro-grids by taking advantages from plug-in electric vehicles considered as vector devices for renewable energy exchanges, besides additional... more
This paper focuses on a novel energy management approach for cluster of buildings connected in micro-grids by taking advantages from plug-in electric vehicles considered as vector devices for renewable energy exchanges, besides additional high-power appliances and house electricity sources. Such approach allows accelerating the development of nearly zero energy buildings and promoting the deployment of renewable energy sources at a micro grid level. To this aim, a dynamic simulation model, implemented in MatLab was developed for the building energy demands and loads assessment. To show the potentiality of the considered concept and approach, a case study based on a micro-grid consisting of a house and an office building connected by an electric vehicle is presented. The optimization of three different layouts, where electricity is alternatively produced by tilted roof or vertical façade photovoltaic panels is conducted by means of a parametric analysis performed by varying the vehic...
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Abstract This paper focuses on the design of an innovative low-cost air-based photovoltaic/thermal collector prototype, for which a novel dynamic simulation model is suitably developed in order to investigate its energy performance and... more
Abstract This paper focuses on the design of an innovative low-cost air-based photovoltaic/thermal collector prototype, for which a novel dynamic simulation model is suitably developed in order to investigate its energy performance and economic feasibility under different operating conditions. The main novelty of this photovoltaic/thermal collector is the low-cost heat extraction system, implemented to reduce the photovoltaic cells temperature and to recover thermal energy. The prototype is tested under different operating conditions and the experimental data are used to validate the presented simulation model. The developed tool, implemented in a MatLab code, is used for analysing a suitable case study. The photovoltaic/thermal collectors are coupled to an air-to-air heat pump for space heating of a sample building. A novel performance map of such a coupled system is built with the aim of linking the heat pump coefficient of performance to both the outdoor air temperature and incident solar radiation. In addition, the system energy effectiveness and economic feasibility, compared to those of a traditional system, are assessed for the climate of 8 different European weather zones. Simulation results highlight the effectiveness of the proposed system, estimating primary energy savings (11.0–19.7 MWh/year corresponding to 52–80%), avoided carbon dioxide emissions (4.64–10.4 tCO2/year), and simple pay-back periods (3.2–4.8 years).
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Natural gas is typically transported for long distances through high pressure pipelines. Such pressure must be reduced before the gas distribution to users. The natural gas lamination process, traditionally adopted for this scope, may... more
Natural gas is typically transported for long distances through high pressure pipelines. Such pressure must be reduced before the gas distribution to users. The natural gas lamination process, traditionally adopted for this scope, may determine hydrate formation which may damagingly affect the system operation. Therefore, in order to avoid such circumstance, a suitable gas preheating is required. On the other hand, the available pressure drop can be recovered through a turbo-expansion system in order to provide mechanical energy to drive electricity generators. In this case a higher gas preheating is necessary. This paper presents a detailed simulation model capable to accurately analyse this process as well as the traditional decompression one. Such new model, implemented in a computer tool written in MATLAB, allows one to dynamically assess the energy, economic and environmental performance of these systems, by also taking into account hourly energy prices and weather conditions. ...
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ABSTRACT In this paper a purposely designed model for the WLHP system analysis is presented. Hourly, daily and seasonal system performances are computed. A WLHP system performance optimization is carried out varying the system running... more
ABSTRACT In this paper a purposely designed model for the WLHP system analysis is presented. Hourly, daily and seasonal system performances are computed. A WLHP system performance optimization is carried out varying the system running parameters. In addition comparisons vs. HVAC traditional systems are also assessed. A case study relative to a large commercial building located close to Naples (South Italy) is finally presented. Here encouraging results from both energetic economic and environmental point of view are achieved vs. the traditional systems.
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ABSTRACT The paper is focused on the dynamic simulation of a high-temperature Solar Heating and Cooling (SHC) system based on the coupling of Concentrating Photovoltaic/Thermal collectors (CPVT) with a double-effect absorption chiller.... more
ABSTRACT The paper is focused on the dynamic simulation of a high-temperature Solar Heating and Cooling (SHC) system based on the coupling of Concentrating Photovoltaic/Thermal collectors (CPVT) with a double-effect absorption chiller. The CPVT, made-up by a parabolic dish concentrator and a triple-junction PV receiver, was simulated by means of a zero-dimensional model, already described in Part I. Here, the CPVT model was integrated with the dynamic model of a solar trigeneration system, previously developed by the authors. The polygeneration system under analysis produces electric energy, space heating and domestic hot water for a building, whose simulation is also included in the model. The electric energy is consumed in part consumed by the building (lights, equipments), in part by the system parasitic loads; eventual excess is sold to the public grid. In addition, the CPVT provides the heat required to drive the absorption chiller, which is therefore able to provide also space cooling for the building. A case study is presented and discussed, and the results show that the system under investigation can be economically profitable, provided that an effective funding policy is available.
Abstract Several new technologies can be today implemented in buildings in order to achieve the NZEB goal. In this paper a novel computer model for predicting the energy demand of buildings integrating phase change materials,... more
Abstract Several new technologies can be today implemented in buildings in order to achieve the NZEB goal. In this paper a novel computer model for predicting the energy demand of buildings integrating phase change materials, photovoltaic-thermal collectors, adjacent sunspaces and innovative daylighting control is presented. Through this tool, DETECt 2.2, written in MatLab and conceived for research purposes, the overall energy and economic performance of multi-zone NZEBs can be assessed. Both the active and passive effects on the energy demands of all the above mentioned technologies, even if simultaneously utilized, are taken into account by means of an integrated building modelling approach. In addition, parametric and sensitivity analyses, with a single simulation run, can be carried out for design purposes. A novel relevant case study referred to the energy design of a non-residential NZEB for Mediterranean climates is developed. For this building a suitable energy optimization analysis was also carried out. For each use of the indoor space, the optimal value of the pivotal design and operating parameters is calculated. Details about the optimal position of building PCMs and thermal insulation layers, also coupled to BIPV and/or BIPV/T systems, are provided. For the obtained best configuration very low heating and cooling demands are achieved (0.9 and 1.5 kWh/m 3 y, respectively). Results about a simplified economic analysis carried out on the investigated energy saving technologies are also reported. At last, new NZEB definition details and criteria are provided for non-residential buildings located in the southern European zones (Mediterranean climates).
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ABSTRACT In this paper a purposely designed model for the WLHP systems performance analysis is presented. Hourly, daily and seasonal energy system consumption, economic cost and environmental impact are computed. Comparisons vs. HVAC... more
ABSTRACT In this paper a purposely designed model for the WLHP systems performance analysis is presented. Hourly, daily and seasonal energy system consumption, economic cost and environmental impact are computed. Comparisons vs. HVAC traditional systems are also assessed. Some cases studies relative to installations in two kinds of mall shopping buildings located in different European climatic areas are finally presented. Results are achieved in relation to TRY weather data. Design guidelines could be extracted from the presented investigation. Here, WLHP systems primary energy savings and the avoided CO2 vs. the traditional systems ranges, in function of the considered climatic region, averagely from 0 to 20% and from 0 to 40% respectively. The economic convenience is influenced by the energy national costs ranging from 0 to 25%. Keywords: WLHP system, HVAC performance simulation, building energy saving.
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This paper presents experimental and numerical analyses of a novel high-temperature solar cooling system based on innovative flat-plate evacuated solar thermal collectors (SC). This is the first solar cooling system, including a... more
This paper presents experimental and numerical analyses of a novel high-temperature solar cooling system based on innovative flat-plate evacuated solar thermal collectors (SC). This is the first solar cooling system, including a double-effect absorption chiller, which is based on non-concentrating solar thermal collectors. The aim of the paper is prove the technical and economic feasibility of the system, also presenting a comparison with a conventional technology, based on concentrating solar thermal collectors. To this scope, an experimental setup has been installed in Saudi Arabia. Here, several measurement devices are installed in order to monitor and control all the thermodynamic parameters of the system. The paper presents some of the main results of this experimental campaign, showing temperatures, powers , energies and efficiencies for a selected period. Experimental results showed that collector peak efficiency is higher than 60%, whereas daily average efficiency is around 40%. This prototypal solar cooling system has been numerically analysed, developing a dynamic simulation model aiming at predicting system performance. For a representative operating period, numerical data were compared with the experimental one, showing an excellent accuracy of the model. A similar system, equipped with Parabolic Trough solar thermal collectors (PTC) was also simulated in order to compare the novel solar collectors with such reference technology. For both systems a detailed thermo-economic model has been implemented in order to perform such comparison also from the economic point of view. Results showed that the rated energy performance of the prototypal solar cooling system featuring new collectors is better than that of the reference system. In particular, the difference between the novel and the reference solar cooling system becomes more and more significant, when considering the effects of dust and defocusing related to the tracking mechanism of concentrating collectors in harsh environments. Finally, from the economic point of view, results showed that the novel prototype was able to achieve a good profitability.
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In this paper a new dynamic simulation model for the building energy performance analysis of multi-enclosed thermal zones, where rigid air temperature and humidity conditions must be kept, is presented. The model was implemented in a... more
In this paper a new dynamic simulation model for the building energy performance analysis of multi-enclosed thermal zones, where rigid air temperature and humidity conditions must be kept, is presented. The model was implemented in a suitable computer code (DETECt 2.3.1) developed for research scopes. Such simulation model allows the hygrothermal analysis of buildings with multi-enclosed thermal zones surrounded by larger ones (e.g. display glass cases with valuable artefacts in museum halls, neonatal intensive care units for premature and full-term newborn babies in hospitals wards, etc.). For this purpose, a novel control algorithm, based on a model reference adaptive control scheme, enabling the online adaptation of the control gains, is implemented. Rigid air temperature and humidity conditions can be guaranteed also in case of sudden and rapid variability of hygrothermal loads. Through such new tool innovative techniques and operative strategies for obtaining energy efficiency and indoor comfort of special building spaces can be studied.
In order to show the capabilities of the tool and the robustness of the adaptive algorithm, as well as the potentiality of the proposed multidisciplinary approach to the energy-related behaviour in buildings (based on building energy modelling and simulation and control theory), two meaningful case studies have been developed. In particular, they refer to the museums and hospital indoor spaces where enclosed thermal zones have to be kept under stringent hygrothermal conditions.
In order to show the capabilities of the tool and the robustness of the adaptive algorithm, as well as the potentiality of the proposed multidisciplinary approach to the energy-related behaviour in buildings (based on building energy modelling and simulation and control theory), two meaningful case studies have been developed. In particular, they refer to the museums and hospital indoor spaces where enclosed thermal zones have to be kept under stringent hygrothermal conditions.
Research Interests: Hospitality Management, Sustainable Building Design, Adaptive Control, Energy Efficiency Buildings, Building Energy Simulation, and 16 moreMuseums and Exhibition Design, Green architecture, Energy efficiency, Energy Efficiency in Buildings, Green Building, Building Automation, Neonatal, Thermal comfort, HVAC Control, Museum Management, Thermal comfort & Energy efficiency in hot climates, Mechanical Engineering-HVAC, CONTROL AND AUTOMATION, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, HVAC / Building Services, and Air Quality in Hospitals
This paper analyses the energy and economic performance of roof and/or façades Building Integrated flat-plate PhotoVoltaic and Thermal (BIPVT) collectors for residential applications. Aim of the analysis is to assess the active and... more
This paper analyses the energy and economic performance of roof and/or façades Building Integrated flat-plate PhotoVoltaic and Thermal (BIPVT) collectors for residential applications. Aim of the analysis is to assess the active and passive effects due to the building integration of solar technologies on the building energy consumptions. In particular, a comparison among innovative building-plant system configurations, based on BIPVT collectors for the simultaneous production of electricity, thermal energy, and domestic hot water, is carried out. The simulation models of the proposed system layouts are designed and implemented in TRNSYS simulation environment for the dynamic assessment of their energy and economic performance. By means of the developed simulation model, the occurring summer and winter building passive energy effects due to the PVT building integration are also analysed.
Several case studies are developed by modelling a representative multi-storey residential building and by taking into account different European climates. For such case studies a suitable energy parametric analysis is performed by varying the thermal resistances and capacitances of the building envelope. By the simulation results interesting design and economic feasibility guidelines are obtained. In particular, by varying the weather location and the building-plant configuration, the adoption of BIPVT panels produces a decrease of the primary energy demands from 67 to 89%. The passive effects of the BIPVT system in both the winter and summer season are also assessed for all the investigated climate zones. The calculated economic profitability resulted slightly better for roof BIPVT panels than for roof and façade applications. For the investigated case studies, the pay back periods appear quite long, varying from 11 years for South European weather zones to 20 for North European ones.
Several case studies are developed by modelling a representative multi-storey residential building and by taking into account different European climates. For such case studies a suitable energy parametric analysis is performed by varying the thermal resistances and capacitances of the building envelope. By the simulation results interesting design and economic feasibility guidelines are obtained. In particular, by varying the weather location and the building-plant configuration, the adoption of BIPVT panels produces a decrease of the primary energy demands from 67 to 89%. The passive effects of the BIPVT system in both the winter and summer season are also assessed for all the investigated climate zones. The calculated economic profitability resulted slightly better for roof BIPVT panels than for roof and façade applications. For the investigated case studies, the pay back periods appear quite long, varying from 11 years for South European weather zones to 20 for North European ones.
Research Interests: Renewable Energy, Sustainable Building Design, Energy Efficiency Buildings, Building Energy Simulation, Modeling and Simulation, and 20 moreBuilding Integrated Solar Energy Technologies, Renewable energy resources, Alternative Energy, Renewable Energy Systems, Green Building, Simulation, Solar Energy, HVAC modelling, TRNSYS simulation, Solar PV, HVAC and Sustainability, Environmental Design of Buildings, Mechanical Engineering-HVAC, NZEB, HVAC equipment, Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), energy efficient HVAC design, solar PV power plants, Building Integrated Renewable Energy, and HVAC / Building Services
In this study, the results of the performance analysis of a WLHP system applied to a large mall building located close to Naples (South Italy) is presented. The investigation was carried out through a purposely developed dynamic... more
In this study, the results of the performance analysis of a WLHP system applied to a large mall building located close to Naples (South Italy) is presented. The investigation was carried out through a purposely developed dynamic simulation model conceived for building-WLHP systems analyses. Through such computer tool, hourly, daily and seasonal system energy, economic and environmental assessments can obtained. For the developed case study the results of the WLHP system optimization procedure are also reported. A comparison of the modeled WLHP system Vs. traditional HVAC ones is also performed. Encouraging energy, economic and environmental results are achieved.
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Several new technologies can be today implemented in buildings in order to achieve a NZEB. In this paper a novel computer model for predicting the energy demand of buildings integrating phase change materials, photovoltaic-thermal... more
Several new technologies can be today implemented in buildings in order to achieve a NZEB. In this paper a novel computer model for predicting the energy demand of buildings integrating phase change materials, photovoltaic-thermal collectors, adjacent sunspaces and innovative daylighting control is presented. Through this tool, written in MatLab and conceived for research aims, the overall energy and economic performance of multi-zone NZEBs can be assessed. Both the active and passive influences of all the above mentioned technologies (even when simultaneously utilised) are taken into account since in the code they are modelled as building integrated. Parametric and sensitivity analyses, with a unique simulation run, can be carried out for research design purposes.
A novel relevant case study referred to a non-residential NZEB for Mediterranean climates is developed. For this building a suitable energy optimization analysis, was also carried out. For each use of the indoor space the optimal value of the pivotal design and operating parameters is calculated. Details about the optimal position of building PCMs and thermal insulation layers, also coupled to BIPV and/or BIPV/T systems are provided. For the obtained best configuration very low heating and cooling demands are achieved (1.6 and 2.9 kWh/m3y, respectively). Results about a simplified economic analysis carried out on the investigated energy saving technologies are reported. At last, new NZEB definition details and criteria are provided for non-residential buildings located in the southern European zones (Mediterranean climates).
A novel relevant case study referred to a non-residential NZEB for Mediterranean climates is developed. For this building a suitable energy optimization analysis, was also carried out. For each use of the indoor space the optimal value of the pivotal design and operating parameters is calculated. Details about the optimal position of building PCMs and thermal insulation layers, also coupled to BIPV and/or BIPV/T systems are provided. For the obtained best configuration very low heating and cooling demands are achieved (1.6 and 2.9 kWh/m3y, respectively). Results about a simplified economic analysis carried out on the investigated energy saving technologies are reported. At last, new NZEB definition details and criteria are provided for non-residential buildings located in the southern European zones (Mediterranean climates).
Research Interests: Renewable Energy, Sustainable Building Design, Energy Efficiency Buildings, Building Energy Simulation, Modeling and Simulation, and 21 moreBuilding Integrated Solar Energy Technologies, Green architecture, Energy efficiency, Green Building, Building Technology, Solar Energy, Green Architecture and Environmental Design, ZERO CARBON ARCHITECTURE, Energy savings, Environmental Design of Buildings, Phase Change Materials (PCM), Net Zero Energy Buildings, Energy Saving Strategies, NZEB, Zero Carbon Buildings, Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), Net Zero Energy Homes, Net Zero Carbon Building Refurbishment, Zero Carbon Building, Building Integrated Renewable Energy, and HVAC / Building Services
The feasibility of several new technologies for energy efficiency in buildings is investigated by means of a novel in-house developed Building Energy Performance Simulation (BEPS) code (called DETECt). A novel case study referred to a... more
The feasibility of several new technologies for energy efficiency in buildings is investigated by means of a novel in-house developed Building Energy Performance Simulation (BEPS) code (called DETECt). A novel case study referred to a nonresidential NZEB to be built up in Naples is presented.
Research Interests: Energy Economics, Renewable Energy, Sustainable Development, Energy, Sustainable Building Design, and 32 moreEnergy Efficiency Buildings, Building Energy Simulation, Building Integrated Solar Energy Technologies, Integrated Renewable Energy System, Energy and Environment, Sustainable Energy, Sustainable Construction, Green architecture, Renewable energy resources, Sustainable Architecture, Alternative Energy, Sustainable Design, Energy efficiency, Renewable Energy Systems, Renewable Energies, Green Construction, Green Building, Green Technology, Green Energy, renewable Energy sources, Solar Energy, Green Architecture and Environmental Design, Solar PV, Renewable Energy Technologies, Solar Collector, Dynamic Systems and Control, Solar Cooling Systems, NZEB, solar PV power plants, Multiple Input Converters for Renewable Energy Integration, Building Integrated Renewable Energy, and HVAC / Building Services
This paper presents a new simulation model and a numerical analysis of a novel high-temperature solar heating and cooling system based on innovative high temperature flat plate evacuated solar thermal collector (SC). The system... more
This paper presents a new simulation model and a numerical analysis of a novel high-temperature solar heating and cooling system based on innovative high temperature flat plate evacuated solar thermal collector (SC). The system configuration includes: flat-plate evacuated solar collectors, a double-stage LiBr-H2O absorption chiller, gas-fired auxiliary heater, a closed loop cooling tower, pumps, heat exchangers, storage tanks, valves, mixers and controllers. The novelty lies in the utilization of flat-plate stationary solar collectors rather than concentrating ones, typically adopted for driving double-stage absorption chillers. Such devices are manufactured by TVP Solar. Due to the high vacuum insulation, such collectors show ultra-high thermal efficiencies even when the operating temperature is very high (about 200°C).
Aim of the paper is to analyse the energetic and economic feasibility of this novel technology. For this scope, the design and the performance of a prototypal solar heating and cooling system were studied. Such purpose was obtained developing a suitable dynamic simulation model implemented in TRNSYS. A suitable case study was developed. It was conceived for the space heating and cooling of a small building and it is referred to a real installation built up close to Naples (South Italy) accomplished also for experimental purposes. Simulation results show that the investigated system can reach high thermal efficiencies and extremely good energy performance. A significant amount of domestic hot water is also produced, especially during the winter season. Finally, the economic analysis showed results comparable to the ones achieved through similar renewable energy systems.
Aim of the paper is to analyse the energetic and economic feasibility of this novel technology. For this scope, the design and the performance of a prototypal solar heating and cooling system were studied. Such purpose was obtained developing a suitable dynamic simulation model implemented in TRNSYS. A suitable case study was developed. It was conceived for the space heating and cooling of a small building and it is referred to a real installation built up close to Naples (South Italy) accomplished also for experimental purposes. Simulation results show that the investigated system can reach high thermal efficiencies and extremely good energy performance. A significant amount of domestic hot water is also produced, especially during the winter season. Finally, the economic analysis showed results comparable to the ones achieved through similar renewable energy systems.
Research Interests: Sustainable Building Design, Energy Efficiency Buildings, Building Energy Simulation, Modeling and Simulation, Building Integrated Solar Energy Technologies, and 7 moreSolar thermal, Green Building, TRNSYS simulation, HVAC and Sustainability, Solar cooling, Solar Cooling Systems, and HVAC / Building Services
In this paper the energy design and the optimization of a non-residential NZEB conceived for Mediterranean climates are discussed. The presented NZEB will be built up in Naples (South-Italy). The building will include offices, expo spaces... more
In this paper the energy design and the optimization of a non-residential NZEB conceived for Mediterranean climates are discussed. The presented NZEB will be built up in Naples (South-Italy). The building will include offices, expo spaces and a conference room. Different innovative energy efficiency strategies, regarding the building envelope and plants are taken into account. Their benefit in terms of energy performance is assessed by a novel in-house developed building energy performance simulation code (DETECt 2.2) written in MatLab. An optimization procedure and a sensitivity analysis of the pivotal design and operating parameters are carried out from both the energy and economic points of view. The obtained numerical results show that interesting energy and economic savings can be achieved. Results can be useful for stakeholders working on non-residential NZEBs in temperate climates.
Research Interests: Renewable Energy, Sustainable Building Design, Energy Efficiency Buildings, Building Energy Simulation, System Dynamics Modeling, and 24 moreBuilding Integrated Solar Energy Technologies, Sustainable Architecture, Alternative Energy, Energy efficiency, Green Building, Building Technology, Solar Energy, Refrigeration Air Conditioning, HVAC modelling, Energy Saving, ZERO CARBON ARCHITECTURE, HVAC and Sustainability, Net Zero Energy Buildings, Solar Cooling Systems, Mechanical Engineering-HVAC, NZEB, HVAC equipment, Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), energy efficient HVAC design, Net Zero Energy Homes, Net Zero Carbon Building Refurbishment, Zero Carbon Building, Building Integrated Renewable Energy, and HVAC / Building Services
In this paper the results of an on-site experimental analysis carried out on a Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) fed by different fuels (hydrogen, landfill gas and different mixtures of them) are presented. The examined MCFC is one of the... more
In this paper the results of an on-site experimental analysis carried out on a Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) fed by different fuels (hydrogen, landfill gas and different mixtures of them) are presented. The examined MCFC is one of the experimental devices of an innovative power plant located at the urban landfill of Giugliano in Campania (Naples, Italy). Here, electricity is produced through four cogenerative reciprocating engines and one cogenerative gas turbine fed by landfill gas, operating since 2003. At the same site, two different fuel cells are installed for scientific purposes.
During the considered experimental campaign, the MCFC is initially supplied by hydrogen for testing the system at the best operating conditions. Afterward, the fuel cell is fed by mixtures of different ratios of hydrogen and reformed landfill gas. For this reason, the system is equipped with an external reformer and a suitable gas cleaning. In order to analyse the system energy performance under varying electricity loads (obtained through an electronic device), several tests were carried out. In addition, several stress tests were also performed aiming at analysing the system endurance when fed by landfill gas. The experimental results concerning the produced electric currents and voltages show satisfactory performance of the system, while the obtained operating temperatures and cell reliability still need to be improved.
During the considered experimental campaign, the MCFC is initially supplied by hydrogen for testing the system at the best operating conditions. Afterward, the fuel cell is fed by mixtures of different ratios of hydrogen and reformed landfill gas. For this reason, the system is equipped with an external reformer and a suitable gas cleaning. In order to analyse the system energy performance under varying electricity loads (obtained through an electronic device), several tests were carried out. In addition, several stress tests were also performed aiming at analysing the system endurance when fed by landfill gas. The experimental results concerning the produced electric currents and voltages show satisfactory performance of the system, while the obtained operating temperatures and cell reliability still need to be improved.
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This paper investigates several actions for the energy refurbishment of some buildings of the University Hospital Federico II of Naples. The analysis focuses on a specific lot of 4 buildings, representative of the whole district hospital.... more
This paper investigates several actions for the energy refurbishment of some buildings of the University Hospital Federico II of Naples. The analysis focuses on a specific lot of 4 buildings, representative of the whole district hospital. For those structures, sustainable energy savings actions are investigated. They regard the installation of: i) roofs thermal insulation; ii) a substation climatic 3-way valve; iii) radiators thermostatic valves; iv) AHU (air handling unit) time-programmable regulation. This paper aims at presenting an investigation methodology, useful for designers and other stakeholders involved in hospital energy refurbishments, based on an integrated approach which combines dynamic energy performance simulations and experimental campaigns. In order to measure all the simulations' missing input parameters, a suitable experimental analysis, including measurements of temperature, humidity, flow rate and density of construction materials, is performed. A thermographic investigation is also performed for investigating the building envelope performance. This analysis showed that significant savings can be achieved especially by adopting radiators thermostatic valves and AHU regulations.
Coherently, the installation of a 3-way valve in the substation does not determine significant additional savings when radiators thermostatic valves are already installed. For high-rise buildings, roofs insulation returns only marginal reductions of space heating and cooling demands.
Coherently, the installation of a 3-way valve in the substation does not determine significant additional savings when radiators thermostatic valves are already installed. For high-rise buildings, roofs insulation returns only marginal reductions of space heating and cooling demands.
Research Interests:
The paper is focused on the dynamic simulation of a Photovoltaic/Thermal collector (PVT) integrated in a high-temperature Solar Heating and Cooling (SHC) system. The system is based on the following main components: concentrating... more
The paper is focused on the dynamic simulation of a Photovoltaic/Thermal collector (PVT) integrated in a high-temperature Solar Heating and Cooling (SHC) system. The system is based on the following main components: concentrating parabolic PVT (photovoltaic thermal) collectors, a double-stage LiBr-H2O absorption chiller, storage tanks, auxiliary heaters, balance of plant devices. The PVT is made-up by a parabolic dish concentrator and a triple-junction receiver. The polygeneration system provides electricity, space heating and cooling and domestic hot water for a given building, whose simulation is also included in the model. In particular, PVT produces electric energy, which is in part consumed by the building loads (lights and equipments), in part by the system parasitic loads, whereas the eventual excess is sold to the public grid. Simultaneously, the PVT provides the heat required to drive the absorption chiller. The system was simulated by means of a zero-dimensional transient model, that allows the evaluation of temperature profiles and also heat/electrical energy flows for whatever period of the year. It is also possible to evaluate the overall energetic and economic performance on whatever time basis (day, week, month, year, etc.). The economic results show that the system under investigation can be profitable, if a proper funding policy is available. The paper also includes an extensive parametric analysis aiming at evaluating the set of design and operating parameters (solar field area, tank volumes, set point temperatures, etc.) that maximize the energetic and/or economic performance of the system.
Research Interests: Photovoltaics, Renewable Energy, Sustainable Building Design, Solar Concentrators, Energy Efficiency Buildings, and 17 moreBuilding Energy Simulation, Modeling and Simulation, Building Integrated Solar Energy Technologies, Energy and Environment, Sustainable Energy, Renewable energy resources, Alternative Energy, Energy efficiency, Renewable Energy Systems, Green Building, Solar Energy, HVAC and Sustainability, Solar Collector, Solar Cooling Systems, Solar Photovoltaic/thermal Collectors, Building Integrated Renewable Energy, and HVAC / Building Services
In questo articolo sono analizzati alcuni potenziali interventi di riqualificazione energetica da effettuarsi sugli edifici dell’Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria (AOU) Federico II, meglio nota come Secondo Policlinico di Napoli. Tali... more
In questo articolo sono analizzati alcuni potenziali interventi di riqualificazione energetica da effettuarsi sugli edifici dell’Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria (AOU) Federico II, meglio nota come Secondo Policlinico di Napoli. Tali interventi riguardano sia l’involucro edilizio che gli impianti di riscaldamento e raffrescamento del suddetto complesso ospedaliero. Lo studio è effettuato con l’ausilio di TRNSYS, noto strumento per la simulazione dinamica delle prestazioni energetiche dei sistemi edificio-impianto. I risultati ottenuti riguardano l’analisi condotta sia sullo stato attuale che su quello a valle degli interventi di riqualificazione. Ai fini dell’indagine è stata necessaria una preliminare campagna sperimentale condotta attraverso diverse strumentazioni di misura (temperatura, umidità, portata e densità dei materiali da costruzione) utilizzate per valutare alcuni parametri necessari all’analisi, inizialmente non noti. SUMMARY In this paper several actions for the energ...
In this paper the results of an on-site experimental analysis carried out on a Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) fed by different types of fuels (hydrogen and landfill gas) is presented. The examined MCFC, is one of the devices of an... more
In this paper the results of an on-site experimental analysis carried out on a Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) fed by different types of fuels (hydrogen and landfill gas) is presented. The examined MCFC, is one of the devices of an experimental power plant located at the landfill of Giugliano in Campania (Naples – Italy). Here, electricity by four cogenerative reciprocating engines and one gas turbine fed by landfill gas is produced since 2003. In addition a MCFC and a SOFC are installed for experimental purposes. In the experimental campaign the MCFC was initially supplied by hydrogen only. Subsequently, the cell was fed by reformed methane obtained by an external reformer. Such methane was obtained by a suitable cleaning process of the available landfill gas. The energy performance of the cell was tested increasing and decreasing the electricity load (by a suitable electronic device) for both the utilized fuels and for a suitable fuels mixture. A stress test was also carried out...
In this paper, a novel purposely designed dynamic simulation model for the performance analysis of solar heating and cooling systems is presented. The investigated system layouts are based on single stage LiBr–H2O absorption chillers and... more
In this paper, a novel purposely designed dynamic simulation model for the performance analysis of solar heating and cooling systems is presented. The investigated system layouts are based on single stage LiBr–H2O absorption chillers and on both evacuated tube and concentrating photovoltaic thermal solar collectors. Furthermore, both electric chiller and gas fired heater backup system are considered. Such model is implemented in a computer code written in MATLAB. Here, the optimisation of several system design and operating parameters in terms of energy saving is also carried out. A code to code analysis is performed comparing the obtained simulation results vs. those achieved by a TRNSYS model available in literature. The simulation code for the concentrating photovoltaic thermal solar collectors is validated by experimental data. A good agreement among results is observed in both the cases. A suitable case study referred to a building including both offices and dwellings located in Northern and Southern Italy is presented. High primary energy savings are obtained for some of the investigated system layouts. By evacuated tube collectors solar field such savings can reach 74%, while shifting to concentrating photovoltaic thermal solar collectors they often surpass 100%. The system economic profitability strongly depends on future scale economies and eventual public funding.