Cogeneration systems with electric heat pumps: Energy-shifting properties and equivalent plant modelling

Abstract

In this paper, a novel approach to energy and CO2 emission modelling of cogeneration systems coupled to electric heat pumps is presented. The specific objectives are to identify the relevant parameters and variables involved in the analysis of such composite systems, and to provide a synthetic and indicative assessment of the energy and environmental benefits potentially brought with respect to conventional energy systems. To this purpose, the concept of equivalent cogeneration plant is introduced, characterized by equivalent electrical and thermal efficiencies obtained by transforming the classical cogeneration efficiencies through the energy-shifting characteristics of the heat pump. The l..