Optimization and performance analysis of solar hybrid CCHP systems under different operation strategies

The hybridization between conventional combined cooling heating and power (CCHP) systems and solar systems has been considered as a good solution to the urgent energy and environment issues. This study develops the mathematical model of a CCHP system hybridized with PV panels and solar thermal collectors. The particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is adopted to find the optimum values of design parameters. Based on the energy output characteristic of the solar hybrid CCHP system, five operation strategies of the conventional CCHP system are adjusted and applied for the solar hybrid CCHP system. The simulation work of the hybrid CCHP systems based upon a hotel building in Atlanta is carried out to find an appropriate design scheme. The results show that the hybrid CCHP system under the FEL-ECR mode is the best choice. Besides, its PESR, CO2ERR and ATCSR can reach 36.15%, 53.73% and 4.16%, respectively. Compared with a conventional CCHP system, the hybrid CCHP system achieves better energy-saving and CO2 reduction performance. However, the hybrid CCHP system consumes more annual total costs because of its high initial investment.