Energy and exergy analysis of a solar tri-generation system using transient system simulation

Abstract

IC Engine based tri-generation system are readily available in market today. Although such systems are highly efficient, they are mostly based on petroleum and diesel hence, are less environment friendly. This paper presents performance analysis of a small solar tri-generation system to satisfy the needs of an off-grid single family dwelling. Chief functions of this system include electrical power, Domestic Hot Water (DHW) and cooling power production. Key elements of this system include Photo Voltaic Thermal (PVT) collector for electricity and hot-water generation and a hot-water fired LiBr-H2O absorption chiller for chilled water generation. Energy and exergy analysis have been done to evaluate the efficiency and quality of energy extracted. This paper aims to study the effect of various parameters such as tilt angle and wind speed on energy and exergy efficiency of the overall system. A model was designed and simulated in TRNSYS for the system at different wind speed and tilt angles and optimum working conditions were determined. 2.98 KW electric power and 3.77 KW heating power was produced from 26.25 m2 of PVT panel. The energy and exergy efficiency were 50.53 % and 35.87 % respectively.