SHARC Energy Systems was selected by Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) and a collaborative of utilities as one of the top 10 companies in the Incubatenergy Labs Challenge to participate in a significant clean energy pilot demonstration for several substantial Energy Utility companies in the US.
The project objective was to assess the PIRANHA HC system performance, the impact on facility energy use, GHG emissions, and its cost-effectiveness as an energy and load resource for supply utilities.
The Incubatenergy Labs challenge, run by EPRI, chose 10 companies, including SHARC, from more than 130 applicants, to scope and execute paid demonstration projects with utilities, as part of the 2020 challenge cohort.
A PIRANHA™ T10 HC, with a heat capacity of 120,000 Btu/h, was installed at Seven35 building, North Vancouver, to heat domestic hot water by re-using energy contained in wastewater that would otherwise be lost down the drain. The PIRANHA™ HC model bundles cooling capabilities for simultaneous domestic hot water production and air conditioning.
The study was performed in phases, where the domestic hot water load was increased progressively at the percentages of 50%, 75%, and 100%.
The A/C system operation was performed in the last phases, with 75% and 100% load.
To demonstrate the functionality and performance of the new PIRANHA HC over a 3-month period in a 65-unit apartment building in Vancouver, Canada.
Research questions include:
PIRANHA T10 HC could produce 100% of the hot water at 140° F, with an average CoP of 3.8.
Almost 100% reduction in GHG emissions and savings of nearly 60,000 tonnes of ice melting during the lifetime.
The PIRANHA system enabled 60% saving in energy cost compared to the gas boiler, which can be enhanced by its capacity to shift the peak load due to the 878 gallons of hot water storage capacity.
Compared to its competitors’, PIRANHA has higher yearly energy efficiency and longer life expectancy, with no noise issues and no need for defrosting. This study proves that PIRANHA T10 HC should be part of future integrated strategic plans to reduce carbon emissions in all cities.
Oct 14, 2020 at the Incubatenergy Labs Demo Day, Lynn Mueller, Matt Wardlow & Elisa Kimus officially presented the full results of the 12-week pilot project to the stakeholders at EPRI.
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