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size biomass

For the optimal sizing of a biomass system, the Carbon Trust developed the intricately detailed Biomass Decision Support Tool in collaboration with The University of Strathclyde and the Campbell Palmer Partnership. A brief introduction to its underlying methodology and simple user-interface is provide below. 

As mentioned previously within the Determine Demand sub-navigation panel, the tool starts by generating an appropriate demand profile from four possible input mechanisms of varying detail in respect of available data: 

  1. Detailed simulation program e.g. ESP-r
  2. Fuel bill
  3. Real life heat meter measurements
  4. Approximate from typical building and occupancy determinants

With some element of autonomy determined by base calculations, the tool requires the user to then input an array of relevantly detailed inputs which may be broadly categorised into: 

  1. Financial
  2. Fuel type
  3. System parameters
  4. Sizing strategy

This input content is synthesised into a variable output result, where the biomass boiler may be optimally scaled as a percentage of peak load by consideration of need to:

  1. Satisfy current demand and facilitate a reasonable future increase
  2. For purposes of efficiency: Restrict the turn-down ratio and annual fraction where minimum boiler output exceeds demand
  3. Remove the integration of a conventional auxiliary / backup boiler if required

The preceding analysis fixes the optimal size of thermal storage, with prompt warning messages preventing manual diversion. There is no scope for modification of the total volume, only the actual physical dimensions to accommodate space limitations on height etc. expected in real life. 

The end result is a final report summarising all inputs stipulated by a combination of tool and user, and detailing the various carbon emission reductions, progressive financial savings etc. projected by comparison with a conventional fossil fuel reference boiler. This final report should communicate the quantitative benefit of installing biomass boiler systems to the prospective user. 

Although a basic description has been provided above, the tool offers a very simple user interface and it is perhaps more applicable for the user to independently explore and grasp working fundamentals. The tool is available for download at the following link: 

http://www.carbontrust.com/resources/tools/biomass-decision-support-tool

The key deficiency of the Biomass Decision Support Tool is an incapability to integrate solar thermal contributions from the combined system configurations subject to investigation in our project. We therefore require an indirect method to facilitate solar thermal contributions.
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