PhD Thesis - Energy Systems Research Unit - University of Strathclyde
PhD Thesis - Energy Systems Research Unit - University of Strathclyde
PhD Thesis - Energy Systems Research Unit - University of Strathclyde
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8 Applicability<br />
To show the applicability and usefulness <strong>of</strong> the changes made to the MERIT<br />
s<strong>of</strong>tware, the program has been used to analyse the options for creating an<br />
energy-autonomous community on a typical small Scottish island. Results are<br />
presented showing the feasibility <strong>of</strong> accomplishing 100% renewable provision<br />
on this island using available local resources. A hypothetical community, based<br />
on the population, building use and industry <strong>of</strong> the island <strong>of</strong> Muck, <strong>of</strong>f the west<br />
coast <strong>of</strong> Scotland, has been conceived for the purposes <strong>of</strong> this case study [1].<br />
An island community has been chosen for this study as islands represent an<br />
interesting challenge in terms <strong>of</strong> energy supply. There are many small islands<br />
and remote communities around Scotland that are grid-isolated and have no<br />
other energy supplies brought in by pipeline. These communities rely on<br />
expensive and difficult imports <strong>of</strong> fuel (<strong>of</strong>ten diesel or compressed natural gas)<br />
to meet their energy needs. If local resources could be used to meet local energy<br />
needs, this may provide significant benefits, such as the possible decrease in the<br />
cost <strong>of</strong> living, increase in the reliability <strong>of</strong> supply, and creation <strong>of</strong> local<br />
employment. These factors may boost the local economy and may help stem the<br />
de-population <strong>of</strong> these areas. Also, the use <strong>of</strong> renewable and sustainable<br />
methods <strong>of</strong> energy conversion benefits the local environment and helps preserve<br />
natural resources. Such communities, therefore, currently have more incentive<br />
than mainland communities (where electricity and fuel supplies are cheaper and<br />
more easily available) to become self-sufficient in energy terms.<br />
8.1 Demand Pr<strong>of</strong>ile Definition<br />
A hypothetical small island, based on the island <strong>of</strong> Muck, has been conceived<br />
for the purposes <strong>of</strong> this case study. Forty people live on the island, supported<br />
mainly by a 400-hectare farm, and tourism. There are fifteen, three-bedroom<br />
houses, a school for six pupils, two workshops and a craft and grocery store all<br />
<strong>of</strong> which require heat and electricity all year round. There are also two, threebedroom<br />
holiday cottages, a ten-bedroom hotel and a teashop, which require<br />
250
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