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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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considered. The introduction <strong>of</strong> cooling demands, and suitable auxiliary plant to<br />

meet these requirements, may also be a useful addition to the program. This<br />

would allow the analysis <strong>of</strong> air conditioning needs in hot climates, and in<br />

buildings where large numbers <strong>of</strong> computers require constant cooling.<br />

The introduction <strong>of</strong> demand side management measures in order to improve the<br />

match between the demand and supply pr<strong>of</strong>iles would be <strong>of</strong> benefit [3].<br />

Methods <strong>of</strong> using excess electricity in a useful manner, other than the use <strong>of</strong><br />

storage devices, have already been considered for the heating and storage <strong>of</strong> hot<br />

water, and by the use <strong>of</strong> electric storage heaters. Further measures to enable<br />

demand reduction and load levelling could also be introduced, including, for<br />

example, the use <strong>of</strong> load-shedding <strong>of</strong> interruptible supplies. A method for<br />

quantifying demand reduction measures in new buildings, and the effect <strong>of</strong><br />

retr<strong>of</strong>itted measures on existing buildings, would also be useful. This could take<br />

the form <strong>of</strong> load pr<strong>of</strong>ile reduction at the demand definition stage.<br />

9.2.3 Further Supply Development<br />

Further intermittent supply technologies could be incorporated into the program,<br />

including wave, tidal, and run-<strong>of</strong>-the river hydroelectric power generation. The<br />

modelling <strong>of</strong> a solar thermal Stirling engine would also be an interesting<br />

addition for the analysis <strong>of</strong> areas with high insolation. The use <strong>of</strong> heat pumps as<br />

a method for meeting heat demands is enjoying increased interest. These act in<br />

the same way as a refrigerator, with the cold side being placed outside, or in an<br />

area requiring cooling, and the hot side (heat exchanger) placed in the area to be<br />

heated [4]. The performance <strong>of</strong> heat pumps is affected by ambient temperature,<br />

and they work best in colder climates.<br />

Another useful addition to the program would be a model for the Regenesys<br />

energy storage system, recently developed by National Power, which is<br />

effectively a cross between battery and regenerative electrolyser/fuel cell<br />

technology [5]. Using low cost and environmentally benign materials, it<br />

combines the high efficiencies <strong>of</strong> batteries with the separate storage <strong>of</strong> a<br />

hydrogen production and storage system. The result is a system with a fast<br />

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