11/11/2020 Transient simulation of polygeneration systems based on PEM fuel cells and solar heating and cooling technologies

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Energy
Volume 41, Issue 1, May 2012, Pages 18-30

Transient simulation of polygeneration systems based on PEM

fuel cells and solar heating and cooling technologies
Francesco Calise a , Gabriele Ferruzzi a, Laura Vanoli b

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https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2011.05.027 Get rights and content

Abstract
This paper presents a dynamic simulation of an innovative polygeneration system based on
solar heating and cooling and PEM fuel cells technologies. The polygeneration system is
based on the following main components: evacuated solar collectors, single-stage LiBr–H2O
absorption chiller and a PEM fuel cell. The fuel cell operates at full load producing electrical
energy which is in part consumed by the building lights and equipments. The fuel cell is grid
connected in order to perform a convenient net metering. Finally, the system also includes
heat exchangers producing domestic hot water in case of scarce space heating/cooling
demand. The analysis was carried out by means of a transient simulation model, developed
using TRNSYS software and includes the investigation of the dynamic behavior of the
building, developed in TRNBUILD. A small university hall, including also a fitness center, was
adopted as test case. Energetic and economic models were also developed, in order to assess
primary energy savings and the operating and capital costs of the systems under analysis. The
results of the case study were analyzed on monthly and yearly basis, paying special attention to
the energetic and monetary flows. The results are excellent from the energy saving point of
view. On the other hand, the pay back periods can be profitable for the final user only in case
of significant public funding.

Highlights

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0360544211003525 1/2
11/11/2020 Transient simulation of polygeneration systems based on PEM fuel cells and solar heating and cooling technologies - ScienceDirect

► The paper presents an innovative polygeneration system based on solar heating and cooling
and PEM technologies. ► PEM fuel cell can be integrated in solar heating and cooling system
providing auxiliary heat and electricity. ► The overall energetic performance is excellent
whereas the economic parameters show convenience only in case of public funding. ► The
operating temperature of the PEM is too low to drive efficiently the absorption chiller. ► The
size of the PEM, selected on the basis of the maximum heat demand, determines an excess of
electricity production.

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Keywords
Solar energy; Fuel cell; Polygeneration

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