Community scale CHP-DH/PV design & optimisation: a high resolution energy supply model

CHP-DH/PV hybrid systems have the potential to reduce CO2 emissions and improve energy security in the residential housing sector. However, the design of these systems and their operation controls is challenging and may discourage investment. This paper presents an energy supply model and design tool for a CHP-DH/PV system in 1 minute temporal resolution. The model runs a numerical computation on a minute time step to maximise profitability. Adjustable parameters include CHP capacity and specifications, thermal fabrics, housing arrangements, PV capacity, thermal storage size and tariff rates. System design optimisation is investigated as well as sensitivity, financial risk and the prospects for these systems in a ‘zero FiT’ context.