Off-grid solar container project case study content

Can a residential container home be off-grid?

Off-grid simulations of residential container homes are lacking in the literature. The module reduces construction waste and CO 2 -emissions and educates for degrowth. Ventilation and heating are controlled based on ambient temperature, SoC, and time. Better energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and less dumped energy are achieved.

How to achieve off-grid operation in five major climate zones in China?

A detailed TRNSYS simulation has considered control strategies and solutions for heating and cooling to achieve off-grid operation in five major climate zones in China. A central part of the off-grid design is to prioritize among the loads.

Can a base case be used off-grid?

The base case with PV can achieve off-grid operation with thermal comfort in a temperate or subtropical climate. In colder climates, it is recommended to lower the U-values of the envelope and add PVT, floor heating, and a generator to avoid indoor temperatures below 0 °C.

How does off-grid design work?

A central part of the off-grid design is to prioritize among the loads. Heating and cooling have been prioritized in the simulation by gradually shedding DHW consumption and plug-loads as the batteries state of charge is lowered.

How much power does an off-grid building need?

In an off-grid building, however, it is essential to keep this load low in weeks when there is expected to be limited PV generation. The peak load from electric equipment is set to 500 W, according to the schedules in Fig. 7 on weekdays and weekends. The peaks are related to cooking.

How is a container building insulated?

The container walls are insulated with foam insulation on the inside, while OBS sheathing covered with a hard plank siding are added on the outside. The building façade also has an air barrier to ensure an airtightness of 0.6 ACH50, which means 0.6 air changes at 50 Pa pressure difference.