Feasibility of Solar Energy Utilization to Generate Electricity and Thermal Energy for Low-cost Residential Units

The main objective of this study was to investigate the provision of electrical and thermal energy for low-cost housing units using a photovoltaic system and solar collectors instead of conventional fossil fuels. Through the use of photovoltaic system, ۲۴۰۰ kWh of electrical energy can be obtained annually in such a building. Two factors influence the production of solar energy: the average amount of radiation hours and the quality of the equipment. In the case of solar water heater, the obtained energy is ۳۹۴.۵ kWh annually, which the same factors affect its efficiency. To estimate the amount of consumed energy in each sector, electricity bills of ۳ separate residential units, located in the Hessa area (Phase ۶ of Parand New Town), were analyzed and the economic cost of each system was evaluated and compared to the current systems. The results of this study are in a good compliance to other studies, which indicates the possibility of the implementation of these systems in the future for affordable housing projects.

Keywords:

building , electricity , energy , low-cost housing , solar energy