Optimization of operating strategies in a community solar heating system

Minimization of auxiliary energy costs is discussed for heating in a district solar heating system with effective heat storage. The minimization problem is approached by dynamic programming which gives an optimal operating strategy for the auxiliary energy system. The effects of different pricing schemes of auxiliary energy (electricity) have been studied. The results show that with an adequate heat storage capacity, the optimization of the auxiliary energy use in a community solar heating system may lead to considerable cost savings.