Solar-based energy technologies potential to meet a hospital energy needs

Abstract

This article analyses the potential of solar-based energy technologies to cover the electrical and thermal energy needs of a hospital. In particular, this work focusses on the case study of the Hospital de Sant Pau, in Barcelona, and it is based on previous work developed in the context of a research master’s project at the UPC. Modular solar-based technologies available in the market are studied, as well as the weather conditions of the location and the hospital’s energy demand. Three different solarbased technologies are identified as feasible to cover a percentage of the hospital energy needs: photovoltaic, thermal and hybrid solar panels. The potential of each one of the aforementioned technologies is studied separately; the number and distribution of each type of panels is calculated and their energy output throughout the year is calculated, by adjusting the orientation of the panels and the separation between the different rows. Once the yearly energy output for each technology is obtained, cost estimations and GHG emission savings calculations are conducted. The three alternatives prove to be economically viable and environmentally sustainable options for the case of study analysed, even if they can only cover a small percentage of the building’s vast energy demand