Integrated modeling and optimization of various cogeneration systems for a zero-energy industrial building using the combination of renewable energies

This study aims to develop a zero-energy building (ZEB) by optimizing required energy consumption in an industrial building complex. The complex uses an electric compression chiller to meet heating and cooling demands. To achieve this goal, four multi-energy generation systems are proposed, leveraging renewable resources. Building Energy Optimization (Beopt) software is used for simulation, and the EES software is employed to design the energy-supplying systems. The results indicate that the industrial building complex consumes 50,656.29 kWh of electricity, 436,221.62 kWh of heating, and 8,073.36 kWh of cooling annually. The four systems are optimized using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM), focusing on exergy efficiency (EE) and cost rate (CR). System D emerges as the most efficient, with an average EE of 22.35% and an average CR of 8.9 $/h. This system generates 726,090.61 kWh of electricity, approximately 1.06 million kWh for heating purposes, and around 760,000 kWh for cooling needs, making it a suitable system for the complex. Ultimately, this study presents an efficient system with the best cost rate and performance for the energy supply of the studied industrial building, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy strategy.