Experimental investigation of a multi-generation energy system for a nearly zero-energy park: A solution toward sustainable future

In the current paper, the performance of a solar-based multi-generation system was experimentally investigated for one year. The system was composed of a photovoltaic section and a hybrid thermal and desalination section with a linear parabolic solar collector. Results indicate that besides entirely complies with the electricity, drinking water and hot water needs, utilization of the system for a nearly zero-energy park prevents 342 tons of CO2 net annual greenhouse gas emission. Furthermore, the performance of the linear parabolic solar collector was experimentally investigated and compared using both water and Al2O3-water nanofluid as the heat transfer fluids. Results show that using the nanofluid, a noticeable decrease (31%) in the total thermal loss coefficient led to a significant increase (70%) in the thermal efficiency of the system. Calculating the simple and equity paybacks, as well as the Internal Rate of Return, revealed the economic viability of the proposed multi-generation system. The capacity of the proposed system could be easily extended, and the pattern of the nearly zero-energy park in the current study could be applied in other urban areas to pursue a more sustainable future.