Multi criteria dynamic design optimization of a small scale distributed energy system

The aim of this paper is to analyze the mutual interdependencies and trade-offs between heat storage and district heating network considering economic and ecological aspects. Therefore, a MILP (mixed integer linear programming) problem of a distributed energy system is formulated with a weighted multi-criteria objective function including profit and operational CO2 emissions. The considered components include CHP (combined heat and power) units of three different types, a thermal storage facility, a boiler, and district heating pipelines. In a single optimization step placement, quantity and capacity of all components as well as their operation is determined. The computed designs as well as the operation of the energy system are compared under varying weightings and different technology scenarios. We also conduct a sensitivity analysis of the investment costs associated with heat storage and of the piping costs for the district heating network. The results favor the construction of heat storage devices over a district heating network. This applies to both environmental impact and cost of energy supply and can be well explained by the decoupling of heat demand and electricity production, which is shown in a correlation analysis.