After complete analysis of the results obtained from various stages and iterations of the modelling procedures, there are four main points to be taken into account when conducting similar projects/planning similar developments.
- Thermal Store for the flexibility
The Queens Quay Benchmark case relies on decarbonisation of the electricity grid to provide clean heat to the development. This is a buck-passing scenario which does not provide any balancing mechanisms for the already constrained electric grid. The thermal storage offers an opportunity to developments like this to provide energy storage for the surplus energy from the renewable generation. It allows for a so needed flexibility of the system, to charge the store while there is enough of the renewable generation and discharge during the peak times or when the electricity is not “green” enough. The highlights of this technology is its high efficiency compared to other possible solutions (such as hydrogen electrolysis) and is relatively cheap compare to other forms of energy storages (such as batteries or pumped hydro).
- No need for gas/biomass boilers as back-up
It is important to notice that current BAU practice highly relies on gas boilers as a back-up for the system. This is a practise that needs to be dropped if the society wants to effectively fight the climate change. There are different options for “cleaner” back-ups than boilers. The Thermal store can serve as a short term back-up and it can cover for the peak demand. For the cases of prolonged shut downs of the heat pumps a direct heat injection (DHI) to the thermal storage can be suggested, the COP of the system will be lowered during the periods of DHI to 1.
- Thermal Performance of the buildings is the key feature
It needs to be stressed, that better thermal performance of the buildings is the most important step in order to build a low carbon developments. Options such as Passivehaus standard give enough guidance and inspiration for high performance and comfort buildings. As it was demonstrated in this project, the increase of thermal performance can significantly reduce the carbon dioxide emissions.
- Local weather data and local resources needs to be used for accurate modelling
It needs to be borne in mind that each development has its specific climate. Results, for Glasgow having the Whitelee windfarm close by, may not be representative for other perhaps more sunny and less windy places. Assessment of any new development needs to be carried out with local weather data.
