Performance analysis of a hybrid renewable microgeneration system in load sharing applications

The simulation results show that, by implementing a single GSHP system able to meet both heating and cooling loads of the buildings, an overall energy saving close to 46% can be achieved mainly due to the introduction of a significant renewable component. The integrated hybrid GSHP-PVT system, however, results a much higher overall energy saving of 58% due to the contribution of both geothermal and solar energy. Additionally, the GSHP-PVT microgeneration system's capability to generate both heat and power at the point of use is considered more attractive for new and remote community applications where lack of central generation stations and costly connection to the grid is neither an affordable nor a preferable option. Furthermore, reducing the buildings' dependence on the electricity grid also fits well with the “smart grid” concept and with utilities various load shaving and load levelling strategies.