Solar/Electric Heating Systems Using Smart Solar Tanks and Variable Electricity Costs
Abstract
By using forecast based system control and a smart tank design in a solar combi system, the excess electric power production, of for example wind power plants, can be used. This can both reduce the auxiliary cost in the solar combi system and increase the use of renewable power sources. The paper will present work, which will be realized to a product. By using the electricity price variations hour by hour to charge the tank, the auxiliary cost can be reduced by 30% compared to a fixed average electricity price and normal thermostat auxiliary control. By introducing forecast based control in combination with a solar thermal combi system with a smart tank with a variable auxiliary volume fitted to the expected coming heat demand it is expected that the auxiliary energy cost can be reduced below 50% compared to the reference situation.