A model for micro-trigeneration systems based on linear optimization and the Italian tariff policy

The influence of endogen and exogen variables on the performances of small-scale trigenerative plants is investigated by means of a simulation model where the prime mover and the other components are considered as “black boxes” characterized by their performance parameters. The operating policy of the plant is not imposed a priori, but it is on the contrary dynamically and automatically chosen by the model itself using linear optimization techniques. The “constitutive equations” which formalize the relationships between the plant components and the energetic and economic target functions are expressed using linear terms only. By parametrizing the characteristics of the involved machines and of the end users, such a model allows to evaluate the influence of each parameter on the performances of the whole system. The aim is to give useful indications to the manufacturers, designers and end users in the field of trigeneration. The analysis is performed at two different level of details: the first one with a simplified version of the model, for a preliminary evaluation of the influence of the most important parameters, the second one using the complete model, focusing the attention on the Italian situation in terms of tariffs for energy and external temperatures.

► Performances of small-scale trigeneration are investigated by a simulation model.
► Plant components are seen as "black boxes" characterized by performance parameters.
► The operating policy is chosen by the model using linear optimization techniques.
► The analysis is focused on the real Italian tariffs and external temperatures.
► The aim is to give indications to manufacturers, designers and end users.