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PhD Thesis - Energy Systems Research Unit - University of Strathclyde

PhD Thesis - Energy Systems Research Unit - University of Strathclyde

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provision for smaller areas, and help guide the transition towards higher<br />

percentage sustainable energy provision in larger areas.<br />

This work considers the various ways in which the total energy needs <strong>of</strong> an area<br />

may be met in a sustainable manner, the problems and benefits associated with<br />

these, and the ways in which they may be used together to form reliable and<br />

efficient energy supply systems. Consideration is given to the type <strong>of</strong> decision<br />

support framework that is required, and the proposed system is described in<br />

detail. The applicability and relevance <strong>of</strong> the decision support framework are<br />

shown through the use <strong>of</strong> a case study, which highlights the complex nature <strong>of</strong><br />

sustainable energy supply system design.<br />

1.6 Outline <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thesis</strong><br />

Demands for electricity, heat, hot water and transportation fuel may be met, in a<br />

sustainable manner, using a number <strong>of</strong> different processes. These may use<br />

climate related sources, biomass or waste fuels, or fuels derived from biomass or<br />

waste. Chapter 2 discusses currently available supply technologies for these<br />

demand types, methods for producing fuel from biomass and waste, storage<br />

technologies and possible overall supply scenarios.<br />

Chapter 3 looks at existing methods for aiding the design <strong>of</strong> renewable energy<br />

systems, and discusses what is required from this type <strong>of</strong> system. Chapter 4<br />

describes the requirements for a demand and supply matching tool that will<br />

allow possible sustainable energy system designs to be evaluated, and shows<br />

how this can be achieved by enhancing an existing s<strong>of</strong>tware package.<br />

Chapter 5 details the algorithms used to describe the behaviour <strong>of</strong> the supply<br />

systems that may be used to follow the demand for all energy types. These<br />

include the use <strong>of</strong> electricity and a variety <strong>of</strong> fuels derived from biomass and<br />

waste in vehicles, engines, turbines and fuel cells, with possible CHP<br />

generation. An electrolyser model is included to allow the use <strong>of</strong> excess<br />

electricity for the manufacture <strong>of</strong> hydrogen, which may then be used in any <strong>of</strong><br />

the plant described. Also considered are different types <strong>of</strong> heating system, and<br />

25

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