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Solar ponds applied to district heating and cooling

Conference · · Proc. Annu. Meet. - Am. Sect. Int. Sol. Energy Soc.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5900453

A preliminary investigation is presented of the feasibility of incorporating solar ponds into new subdivisions to provide district heating, domestic hot water (DHW), and district cooling. Two locations were chosen for analysis: Fort Worth, Texas, and Washington, DC. Solar ponds were sized to meet space heating, cooling, and DHW loads in each location for differing community sizes. Parameters such as storage layer temperature, pond geometry, and storage depth versus surface area were varied to determine the most effective approach to solar pond utilization. A distribution system for the district heating system was designed, including sizing of heat exchangers, piping, and pumps. Cost estimates for the pond and distribution system were formulated by using data generated in pond sizing, as well as associated system costs (e.g., salt costs, distribution system costs). Finally solar ponds were found to be competitive with residential flat-plate collector systems, with delivered energy costs as low as $16.00/GJ.

Research Organization:
Solar Energy Research Inst., Golden, CO
OSTI ID:
5900453
Report Number(s):
CONF-810509-(Vol.1)
Journal Information:
Proc. Annu. Meet. - Am. Sect. Int. Sol. Energy Soc.; (United States), Journal Name: Proc. Annu. Meet. - Am. Sect. Int. Sol. Energy Soc.; (United States) Vol. 4.1; ISSN PMSID
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English