Integration of different energy vectors in polygeneration systems

One polygeneration node is an energy system where the user demands are met by different generation sources, possibly including renewable energy inputs and energy storages. User demands can involve one single energy vector like electricity, heating, cooling etc. or can be a combination of all of them at the same time. The management strategy of these systems is not univocal since different mix of production can meet the user demand. The operational management has to follow a strategy aiming at some objective like maximisation of renewable energy share, minimisation of operational cost, minimisation of environmental emission etc. The optimal strategy must be based on a model of the system. An optimisation procedure based on a techno-economical approach is here presented together with its main features. An application example is presented and results discussed.