Energy performance comparison of a chiller plant using the conventional staging and the Co-design approach in the early design phase of hotel buildings

As part of the design process of a chiller plant, one of the final stages is the energy testing of the system in relation to future operating conditions. Recent studies have suggested establishing robust solutions, but a conservative approach still prevails at this stage. However, the results of some recent studies suggest the application of a new co-design (control–design) approach. The present research involves a comparative analysis between the use of conventional staging and the co-design approach in the design phase of a chiller plant. This paper analyzes the energy consumption estimations of six different chiller plant combinations for a Cuban hotel. For the conservative approach using on/off traditional staging, the results suggest that the best option would be the adoption of a chiller plant featuring a symmetrical configuration. However, the outcomes related to the co-design approach suggest that the best option would be an asymmetrical configuration. The energy savings results were equal to 24.8% and the resulting coefficient of performance (COP) was 59.7% greater than that of the symmetrical configuration. This research lays firm foundations for the correct choice and design of a suitable chiller plant configuration for a selected hotel, allowing for significant energy savings in the tourism sector.