CSHPSS systems in Greece: Test of simulation software and analysis of typical systems

Actual energy and environmental problems call for an increase of the use of solar energy. In Greece, though solar domestic hot water (DHW) systems are very popular, active solar space heating remains marginal, mainly because of the lack of experience of building professionals. Central solar heating plants with seasonal storage (CSHPSS) are promising systems. In this article, the design data of an interseasonal storage system in Greece are compared with the results of two CSHPSS simulation software codes, MINSUN and SOLCHIPS. The comparison showed good agreement and therefore these user-friendly tools can be used with confidence for the design of CSHPSS under Creek weather conditions. SOLCHIPS was used in order to assess the technical and economic feasibility of three generic types of CSHPSS under four climatically different Greek locations. The results show that CSHPSS, mainly used until now in northern countries, is also an interesting solution for southern climates. With the high solar fractions that CSHPSS achieve, their use can further reduce not only the conventional energy consumption of buildings, but also the associated CO2 emissions that contribute significantly to the already heavy pollution of Greek urban areas. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.