Analysis of the cost of heat energy and the ways of it's saving for residential buildings

Abstract

The rise in gas prices causes them to switch to alternative fuels such as firewood, coal and fuel briquettes. Replacing a gas boiler with a solid fuel does not require much effort and such a solution was economically feasible given the high cost of electricity as well. However, to date, energy pricing has undergone a realignment. So the question remains how to really save energy and money of consumers. The purpose of the article was to analyze the cost of thermal energy during the heating period for individual buildings given the constant change in price and priorities for a particular fuel. Mathematical estimation of heat losses of an individual building was carried out, based on a number of assumptions and generalizations. Thanks to this technique, it is possible to estimate with sufficient accuracy for engineering calculations, consumption of natural gas, solid fuel and electricity to provide energy to the home heating system. As a result of the analysis, a number of features can be outlined. After rising gas prices, individual homeowners have made a sharp switch to solid fuel heating. In 2016, prices for alternative fuels, such as coal and fuel briquettes, were much lower than the price of gas for the population. Therefore, a solid fuel boiler unit was a good solution to the problems of Ukrainians in the fight against energy dependence. In 2020, the situation changed dramatically. The price of solid fuels has risen and it is difficult to find an alternative to gas now, taking into account the ease of operation of the gas boiler, as opposed to solid fuel. The sharp rise in the price of firewood and coal is associated with high demand and a sharp decrease in solid fuel resources. It should also be noted that the problem of ecology in Ukraine will continue to become increasingly important. Therefore, the use of solid fuel sources of heat will have to be consciously refuse in the near future. Application of local infrared heating system will allow to provide local heating of only some residential zones. Also, the installation of a two-zone or three-zone electricity meter and quality regulation of the infrared heating system will save energy.