System Performance Model

This tab activates a highly simplified but instructive, hour-by-hour  solar energy system performance simulation model called SIMPLESYS.  The development of this model is described in

Chapter 14 - Modeling System Performance

PROGRAM SIMPLESYS - This program, written in JavaScript, uses the equations and concepts developed in Chapter 14 of this book to calculate the performance of a highly simplified solar thermal energy system. The model is based on an instantaneous energy balance and a simple constant-temperature control system. Simplified analytical models of solar irradiance, collector performance and heat loss are used so as not to hide the fundamental energy balance at its core. The techniques used here may be refined to any level of sophistication required by the user, in order to closer reflect the system and location of interest. If electrical output is desired, application of a power conversion efficiency is all that is needed to obtain this result.  To run the program, simply click on the hyperlink below.

RUN PROGRAM SIMPLESYS