A closer look on the results of dimensioning the base case leads to a comprehensive knowledge about the MaxLean system behaviour and the advantages of the concept. To gain insight into the influence the components have on the optimised system, a number of parameter variations were performed. For each variation a new optimisation procedure was carried out leading to different curves in the cost/savings diagram. Figure 3 gives an overview of the parameters varied and the results of the optimisation runs.

variation

* base case

• best points

Fig. 3. Cost benefit diagrams of the parameter variations. The triangular dots in the respective charts
represent the dimensioning of the base case. The circular dots are the associated best points, generated with
the varied parameters. a) Cost of solar collector: 100 % to 70 % of the initial price. b) Efficiency curve of
solar collector: , From a low efficiency to a high efficiency flat plate collector. c) Cost of storage tank: 100 %
to 60 % of the initial price. d) Insulation of storage tank: 7.5 cm to 17.5 cm. e) Variation of the rise in energy

prices. 1.3 %/a to 7.5 %/a.

— Portugal *