Advanced Modeling and Tools for Analysis of Energy Use in Supermarkets

Supermarkets are the most energy intensive buildings in the commercial sector. It has been estimated that 3-5 % of the total use of electricity stems from supermarkets in industrialized countries.

The energy systems are complex and large efficiency improvements are possible if a better understanding of design and operation of these systems can be acquired. In addition, it is estimated that the annual refrigerant losses are as high as 15 – 30% of the total charge thus making supermarkets to the no2 emission source after mobile air conditioning. The supermarket sector has therefore a significant role to play not only from the point of view of the energy consumed but also from the point of view of the impact of refrigerant leakage.

The overarching objective of the new Annex is to provide new knowledge, methods and tools for enhanced energy efficiency and thus reduced environmental impact from supermarkets. The aim is also to share ideas and best practises among participation countries.

Objectives

• The aim of the Annex is to increase the level of understanding of the interaction between the refrigeration system and the indoor climate as well as HVAC system and the building envelope. The aim will be approached by the development of reasonable accurate simulation tools that can be used to assist in the analysis of the energy performance and in the development of energy efficient strategies for supermarkets.
• The Annex also aims also at the development of (easy to use) indices for energy use and environmental impact for different countries and systems. Methods for comparisons between different regions and climates will be developed.