Influencing peak cooling power demand in the fossil free energy district project

Abstract

In a country with colder climate such as Sweden, greater needs for cooling only occur during the short summer season, leading to a very noticeable power peak within this period. Such prominent power peak will result in higher investment per kilowatt in the cooling system compare with heating systems. District cooling, as part of the Fossil Free Energy District project emphasis on district level energy systems, allow for easier access to energy data, floor plan and controls. This create a perfect opportunity to combine monitoring thermal comfort of the occupants and controlling the cooling load of buildings. An optimal balance of thermal comfort and supply of cooling can then be determined, effectively reducing peak cooling demand, and thus, reducing both investment cost and environmental impact. To determine this balance, computer-modeling using building simulation software such as IDA ICE can be use along with analysis of current regulation and guidelines on building’s thermal climate.