Analysis and optimization of the use of CHP–ORC systems for small commercial buildings

The use of combined heating and power (CHP) systems is increasing rapidly due to their high potential of reducing primary energy consumption (PEC), cost, and carbon dioxide emissions (CDE). These reductions are mainly due to capturing the exhaust heat to satisfy the thermal demand of a building. However, when the CHP system is operated following the electric load, the recovered exhaust heat may or may not be sufficient to satisfy the thermal demand of the facility. When the recovered exhaust heat is more than the heat required, the excess is usually discarded to the atmosphere. An organic rankine cycle (ORC) can be used to recover the surplus exhaust heat to generate extra electricity. Therefore, combining the ORC system with the CHP system (CHP–ORC) reduces the electricity that has to be produced by the CHP system, thereby reducing the total PEC, cost, and CDE. The objective of this paper is to study the energetic, economical, and environmental performance of a combined CHP–ORC system and compare its performance to a standalone CHP system and a reference building for different climate zones. A comparison of a CHP–ORC system operating 24 h with a system operating during typical office hours is also performed.