Energy, Economic and Environmental Analysis of Alternative, High-Efficiency Sources of Heat and Energy for Multi-Family Residential Buildings in Order to Increase Energy Efficiency in Poland

Abstract

The article presents energy, economic and environmental analyses of the possibilities of using alternative, high-efficiency sources of heat and energy for the multi-family residential building located in Wrocław, Poland, in the temperate climate zone characteristic of Central Europe. For conventional, alternative and hybrid heating systems based on renewable energy sources, comparative analyses of final energy demand, demand for non-renewable primary energy, CO2 emissions, investment costs and life cycle costs were carried out. The detailed comparative analyses of the research results led to the formulation of conclusions and recommendations which may serve as guidelines for designers of multi-family residential buildings and investors. The solutions of heating and hot water preparation systems recommended in the article will enable the design and construction of buildings with no negative impact on the environment. Taking into account the economic and environmental analyses, the optimal sources of heat and energy are alternative heating systems based on highly efficient heat pumps supplied from a photovoltaic installation. Such solutions, however, have both technical and legal limitations related to the possibility of their implementation and are generally associated with higher investment costs.