Multi-objective Optimization of Solar System Sizing in Households with Common Heat Sources

According to following worldwide trend to decrease energy and environmental performance of the building sector, the utilization of renewable energy sources represents a key toward sustainable buildings. The aim of this paper is to introduce an optimization methodology for solar system sizing (photovoltaics and solar thermal collectors) with using a multi-objective optimization for single family house with space heating, domestic hot water preparation and user/appliances electricity consideration. Optimization is based on three objectives: non-renewable primary energy, carbon emissions and total costs. Optimization procedure is performed by interconnection of simulation tool TRNSYS and MATLAB with using genetic algorithm. In TRNSYS, four different heat sources (electric heater, natural gas boiler, wooden fuel boiler and air source heat pump) combined with photovoltaic and solar thermal system have been modelled. Presented case study provides results of optimization for given family house.