Potential for reduction of CO2 emissions by integration of solar water heating systems on student dormitories through building refurbishment

This paper shows benefits that could be achieved by substituting conventional fuel oil, electricity or gas based water heating systems with solar water heating systems (SWHSs) through the dormitories refurbishment. There are 12 dormitories in Belgrade, housing about 11,000 students. Total living area is 147264.8 m2 and daily hot water consumption is 406,720 l what constitutes appreciable potential for substitution of fossil fuels with SWHSs. The dormitory “Karaburma”, having one of the highest potential for SWHSs integration according to the established set of criteria, is selected to demonstrate the effects that could be achieved through SWHS integration. Several design options with integrated solar thermal collectors (STCs) were analyzed and evaluated. A multi-criteria compromise ranking method was used for a comprehensive evaluation of the design options and for selection of the optimal one regarding the conflicting criteria: energy performance, economic, ecological, functional and aesthetic aspects. The results are presented and the main factors influencing design are distinguished and discussed.

► Reductions of CO2 emission by integration of SWHS through building refurbishment of dormitories could be considerable.
► In “Karaburma” dormitory annual reduction of CO2 emission is calculated to be 60482.5 kg by producing 232809.5 KWh.
► SWHS integration greatly depends on building's style, its volumetry and existing heating system facilities.
► An iterative procedure of design should be adopted in order to achieve optimal solution in SWHS integration.
► Multi-criteria compromise ranking method, VIKOR, is recommended to be used in evaluation of design options.