Performance Analyses Of Solar Water Heating System With Thermal Storage Using SAM Simulation

Abstract

This paper examines the development and evaluation of a solar water heating system integrated with a 900-liter thermal storage tank. Heated water from the solar collectors is stored in the tank and made available to meet domestic demand as required. The study outlines a methodological framework for designing a solar water heating system with thermal storage, capable of providing adequate hot water for an average household in Misrata, Libya. The System Advisor Model (SAM) was employed to perform detailed simulations, calculating hot water consumption and the associated system costs. The solar collector, with an area of 4.4079 m², achieved an efficiency of 28%, and the system's circulation pump required 16 W of power. The simulation results provided insights into monthly energy production and annual savings, with total energy savings amounting to 6050 kWh. The auxiliary energy required when supplemented by solar energy was 2409 kWh, compared to 8542.5 kWh without solar integration. Additionally, the cost of energy (COE) for the system was determined to be 25 ¢/kWh. These findings highlight the potential for solar water heating systems to enhance energy efficiency and reduce reliance on conventional energy sources in residential applications.