Modeling of internal combustion engine based cogeneration systems for residential applications

A parametric model that can be used in the design and techno-economic evaluation of internal combustion engine (ICE) based cogeneration systems for residential use is presented. The model, which is suitable to be incorporated into a building simulation program, includes sub-models for internal combustion engines and generators, electrical/thermal storage systems, and secondary system components (e.g. controllers), and is capable of simulating the performance of these systems in 15-min time steps. Water storage tanks for thermal storage and electrochemical (battery) systems for electrical storage are modeled. The parametric model provides users with useful information about the cogeneration system performance in response to a building’s electrical and thermal demands. This paper presents the model, and the results of sensitivity analyses obtained using the model with a building simulation program. The results demonstrate the capabilities of the model and provide an insight into the energetic performance of ICE based cogeneration systems.