Economical efficiency of using a diesel-powered electric plant combined with an air heat pump

BACKGROUND: In settlements located in areas that do not have centralized electric and gas supply, the problems of energy supply are solved using low-power power plants based on heat engines. One of the main drawbacks of such units is the issue of fuel economy, given the cost of its delivery. In this paper, one of the ways to increase the efficiency of energy supply during the heating season in a cold climate is considered. AIMS: Increasing the economical efficiency of a diesel-powered electric plant with an air heat pump in conditions of low ambient teperature. METHODS: Simulation of operation conditions was performed in the MathCad software using the experimental data obtained at the department. RESULTS: Heating of outside air before entering the evaporator of the heat pump makes it possible to significantly increase the conversion coefficient and thus expand the boundaries of application of air-source heat pumps in cold climates. CONCLUSIONS: 1. The combined operation of the diesel power plant with the air heat pump makes it possible to provide a single settlement with electricity as well as to supply it with thermal energy for the needs of heating and hot water supply. 2. With the diesel engine efficiency equal to 37%, the unit efficiency with the heat pump increases to 57% at an ambient temperature of 15°C (288 K). 3. The use of air heating at the inlet to the heat pump evaporator increases the fuel use rate by 12–14% due to the heat of engine and oil cooling. © 2023, Eco-Vector LLC. All rights reserved.