The choice of operating strategy for a complex polygeneration system: A case study for a residential building in Italy

In the building complex, implementation of the operating strategies shows considerable energetic, economic and environmental benefits compared to conventional separate heat and power generation. The ranges of annualized total cost reduction of 17-19%, carbon dioxide emission reduction of 35-43% and fuel consumption reduction of 30-38% are achieved for the various operating strategies. However, each of the operating strategies has its own advantages and drawbacks which emphasizes the importance of post-processing of the results in order to make the right choice. For example, the following thermal load shows the advantage of a higher carbon dioxide emission reduction. On the other hand, one drawback is its lower self-sustainability in terms of electric power compared to the other strategies.