Abstract
This paper is concerned with the application of the Small-Scale Combined Heat and Power (SSCHP) installations as a perspective way of the District Heating System (DHS) modernization programs in Poland. The small-scale installations analyzed hereto, mean the installations with an overall capacity (heat plus power generation) of less than 30 MW.
For the purpose of selection of appropriate type and capacity of the SSCHP installation, operational analysis of the DHS and investigation of possible implementation of the Thermal Energy Storage (TES) systems were performed. Also, the criteria for application of the SSCHP installations in the District Heating Plant (DHP) assuring continuous and efficient operation were presented.
Operational analysis of the DHS covered supply and demand side of the annual heat generation and electricity consumption by the DHP and heat consumption by the consumers. Detailed heat consumption analysis during summer season was carried out in order to increase operational time for the SSCHP installations and for investigation of TES systems application in the DHS.
Heat storage in the DHS and its influence on capacity and operation of the SSCHP was also investigated. Heat accumulation by the District Heating Network (DHN) and by the vertical, stratified TES systems were analyzed. Additionally, heat accumulation by the non-pressure TES system was proposed as an alternative to the vertical, stratified TES system.
Finally, results of calculation of the required capacity of the TES systems assuring continuous and efficient operation of the SSCHP installation in the DHS, especially during summer season were shown. Some advantages of the TES system implementation in the DHS in case where the SSCHP installation is applied in the DHP were presented as well.
