Multi-Source Integrated Cooling Heating and Power System

ABSTRACT: The purpose of the project is to develop and deliver an integrated cooling, heating, and power system that operates from multiple energy sources can be easily incorporated onto a building similar to a standard air conditioning system. The objective of the project is to build a prototype system that will demonstrate significant reduction in the energy used by a building for heating and cooling, plus the ability to provide back-up power. The design presented in this proposal is expected to reduce energy cost for building heating and cooling by 76%. These dramatic reductions are attributed to several unique system features, including: 1) Direct solar driven air conditioning, 2) The ability to put electric power back onto the grid, if excess solar energy is available, and 3) To operate in a co-generation heating mode, which produces electricity as a by-product from heating the building. BENEFIT: The design presented in this proposal is expected to reduce energy costs for building heating and cooling by 76%, with a payback period of 6 years (simple payback analysis) as compared to a conventional cooling, heating, and power system.