Optimization and evaluation of CCHP systems considering incentive policies under different operation strategies

This study proposes two incentive policies consisting of the feed-in tariff and carbon emission trading. The effects of the policies on the performance (economic, energy, and environmental) of CCHP systems running in office and residential buildings under five different operation strategies (following the electric load (FEL), following the thermal load (FTL), two types of following the hybrid electric-thermal load (FHL1 and FHL2), and following the maximum efficiency of power generation unit) were compared and analyzed. The results showed that the best operation strategies were changed before and after the above two incentive policies carrying out. When the policies are not carried out, the FEL and FHL1 strategies are most suitable for the CCHP system in office and residential buildings. Since the policies implement, the FHL2 and FTL strategies are the best. Incentive policies have a greater positive impact on the CCHP system in residential building than that in office. For promoting the development of the CCHP system in residential buildings, the incentive coefficient can be set higher than that in office buildings. Finally, sensitivity analysis was conducted for CCHP systems and the results were presented in terms of feed-in tariff, incentive coefficient, and gas price.