Multi-Criteria Optimization of Technical and Economic Indicators of a Trench-Type Solar-Fuel Greenhouse

The article presents the results of a study on the optimal design of a trench greenhouse with constraints on specific annual thermal load and initial investment. In the first part of the research, an optimal trench greenhouse project was obtained with a constraint on the specific annual thermal load of 50 kWh/(m2 year) and an initial investment of $2000. For designing trench greenhouses with limited investment budgets, it is recommended to use double-layer polycarbonate sheets with a thickness of 10 mm, a heat transfer coefficient of 2.75 W/(m2 K), and a trench depth of 6.32 cm. If it is necessary to reduce the specific annual thermal load to a level below 33.52 kWh/(m2 year), it is recommended to use triple-layer polycarbonate sheets with a thickness of 16 mm, a heat transfer coefficient of 0.62 W/(m2 K), and a trench depth of 6.32 cm. An analysis of the second variant of the trench greenhouse project based on the use of aerated concrete blocks and cellular polycarbonate was conducted. The optimized project reduced the specific heating thermal load by 50% compared to the original design and decreased CO2 emissions by 75%. The total initial investment amounted to $1653.13, with a discounted payback period of 4.7 months. The research results indicate that trench greenhouses can be effective for cultivating agricultural crops. Optimizing the design and construction of trench greenhouses can significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.