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Development of the system efficiency index for refrigeration and air-conditioning systems.

Author(s) : MAIDMENT G. G., EAMES I. W., WANG F., et al.

Summary

Government incentives for end users to select more energy efficient systems are currently based on the ECA (enhanced capital allowances) scheme. This is designed to support investment in low carbon technologies. The aim of the scheme is to reward energy efficient technology with tax allowances. This scheme covers a variety of technologies including combined heat and power (CHP), boilers, lighting and refrigeration components including cabinets. To be able to claim the allowance, the equipment purchased must be taken from an approved technology list that satisfies a minimum performance condition. The current technology listed relating to refrigeration is component based (i.e. compressor or condensing unit) and whilst component efficiency is benchmarked, system efficiency is not considered. Unfortunately this means that it is possible to install a refrigeration system with a compressor that qualifies for ECA but the system can operate inefficiently. However, this may be avoided if a system efficiency measure is used to assess the carbon and energy performance. At the moment, an overall efficiency indicator, such as the Quality Index as used with CHP systems, is not available but is needed. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the performance of the component based index and will suggest a new efficiency index approach for whole systems. The results indicate that significant improvements in refrigeration efficiency and large carbon savings are possible.

Details

  • Original title: Development of the system efficiency index for refrigeration and air-conditioning systems.
  • Record ID : 2008-1834
  • Languages: English
  • Subject: General information
  • Source: Carbon footprint: one step beyond. The IOR 2007 Annual Conference [CD-ROM].
  • Publication date: 2007/11/29

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