A model for optimal energy planning of a commercial building integrating solar and cogeneration systems

This paper proposes a model to minimize life-cycle costs of meeting the energy demand (power, heating, cooling) of a commercial building by integrating cogeneration, solar and conventional energy sources. The possibility to export the onsite produced power under a given legislative framework is also considered. The output of the model is twofold: optimal investment planning and optimal operating strategies of the energy systems. Results of the model are presented analyzing the combination of each individual cogeneration technology with other energy systems. The analysis shows varied operating strategies and output levels among cogeneration technologies and the energy systems coupled with them. The cost-effectiveness of solar and cogeneration technologies and the application of the model in long term planning for commercial building sector in Portugal are also discussed.