North Star Group, Inc.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
Integrated Resilient Power System for
Quadruplex Development in Kyiv
Executive Summary
This white paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the integrated power system designed for
a quadruplex residential development in Kyiv, Ukraine. The system combines conventional power
solutions with innovative energy technologies to create a resilient, efficient, and user-friendly
power infrastructure. The development consists of four 750 sq ft units constructed using
structural insulated panels (SIPs), with a focus on energy efficiency and resilience during grid
outages.
The power system integrates:
● Centralized generator backup (10-12kW)
● Advanced load shedding with smart prioritization
● Air-source heat pump system as primary heating/cooling
● Self-powered piezoelectric fans for heat distribution
● Micro-turbines utilizing gray water
● Finnish stoves as secondary/backup heating
● Energy-efficient appliances (induction cooktops, convection ovens)
● Smart monitoring and control systems
● User-accessible power management dashboards
Our calculations confirm that the designed system meets the target of 40 amps per unit while
providing robust emergency power capabilities. The integrated approach significantly enhances
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resilience without oversizing components, resulting in an optimal balance of capability, efficiency,
and cost.
1. System Overview
1.1 Power Distribution Architecture
The quadruplex employs a centralized power distribution system with:
● Main utility connection with net metering capability
● Centralized 10-12kW dual-fuel generator
● Automatic transfer switch with load shedding controls
● Individual unit subpanels limited to 40 amps per unit
● Centralized monitoring and control system
● Supplementary power generation through renewable sources
1.2 Normal Operation Power Budget
Each 750 sq ft unit has been allocated 40 amps at 220V (8.8kW) during normal operation. This
provides sufficient power for:
Application
Power Draw
(W)
Typical Usage
Factor
Average Consumption
(kWh/day)
Induction cooktop
1800W
0.15
6.48
Convection oven
3000W
0.05
3.60
Refrigerator
150W
0.33
1.19
LED lighting
100W
0.25
0.60
Water heating
1500W
0.10
3.60
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© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
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HVAC/fans
1000W
0.20
4.80
Electronics/charging
200W
0.15
0.72
TOTAL
7750W peak
-
21.0 kWh/day
The 40 amp service (8.8kW) adequately covers the expected peak loads of 7.75kW, providing a
small buffer for additional devices.
2. Emergency Power System
2.1 Generator Specifications and Sizing Validation
The chosen 10-12kW generator has been sized based on critical loads during outages:
Critical Load per Unit
Power Draw (W)
Units
Total Draw (W)
Finnish stove ignition/controls
150W
4
600W
Critical LED lighting
100W
4
400W
Refrigeration
150W
4
600W
Piezoelectric fans
50W
8
400W
Device charging
100W
4
400W
Water pump (shared)
750W
1
750W
Critical medical equipment (contingency)
500W
1
500W
TOTAL
-
-
3,650W
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© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
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Validation: The 10-12kW generator provides sufficient capacity (3,650W base load represents
30-36% of generator capacity). This loading range is ideal for generator efficiency and allows for
load rotation among units.
Fuel Consumption Calculation:
● Average propane consumption: 0.5-0.7 kg/kWh at 35% load
● For 3.65kW load: 1.8-2.6 kg/hour
● 250L propane tank (approximately 125kg): 48-69 hours of continuous operation
● With intermittent use (8 hours/day): 6-8.5 days of operation
This validates the fuel storage recommendation of 250-500L propane for 1-2 weeks of operation
during extended outages.
2.2 Advanced Load Shedding Implementation
The load shedding system employs a three-tier prioritization strategy:
Priority 1 (Always Powered)
● Finnish stove ignition systems and controls
● Minimal LED lighting (emergency circuits)
● Refrigeration
● Critical medical equipment
Priority 2 (Powered When Capacity Available)
● Additional lighting
● Water pump (cycled operation)
● Device charging stations
● Piezoelectric fans
Priority 3 (Limited/Scheduled Access)
● Kitchen outlets (scheduled time slots per unit)
● Additional convenience outlets
● Non-essential systems
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© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
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The implementation uses smart contactors that monitor generator loading and automatically shed
loads when capacity thresholds are reached. The system includes:
● Networked power monitoring at the central panel and subpanels
● Programmed load shedding sequences
● Manual override capabilities via dashboard
● Automatic load rotation to ensure fair distribution of power access among units
3. Supplementary Power Generation
3.1 Micro-Turbine System Analysis
The gray water micro-turbine system utilizes water flow from:
● Showers/bathtubs
● Sinks
● Washing machines
Calculation of Power Generation Potential:
● Average water usage: 150L/person/day
● Estimated occupancy: 2.5 persons/unit × 4 units = 10 persons
● Total daily water flow: 1,500L/day
● Effective head for micro-turbines: 3m (vertical drop in drainage system)
● Turbine efficiency: 60%
Power generation potential: P = ρ × g × h × Q × η P = 1000 kg/m³ × 9.81 m/s² × 3m × (1500L/day /
86400s/day) × 0.6 P = 1000 × 9.81 × 3 × 0.0174 × 0.6 P = 307W (instantaneous during water flow)
Accounting for intermittent flow patterns, this system can generate approximately:
● 100-150W continuous equivalent power
● 2.4-3.6 kWh/day
This output validates the estimated 100-300W continuous power capacity in the initial
assessment.
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© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
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3.2 Self-Powered Piezoelectric Heat Distribution Fans
The piezoelectric fans are designed as self-powering heat distribution devices that:
● Harvest thermal energy from the Finnish stoves to generate their own electricity
● Require zero external electrical input
● Automatically operate based on temperature differential
● Ensure continuous heat distribution even during complete power outages
Thermal-Electric Conversion Mechanism:
● Thermoelectric generation using temperature gradient near stove (ΔT of 30-50°C)
● Piezoelectric elements convert thermal expansion into electrical energy
● Minimum stove temperature for operation: approximately 60°C
Performance Calculations:
● Thermal energy available from stove: 3-5kW during operation
● Conversion efficiency to electricity: 1-2%
● Power generated per fan unit: 30-50W (self-contained)
● Heat distribution capacity: 200-300 cubic feet per minute
This self-powered design ensures that heat circulation continues regardless of external power
availability, preventing cold units during outages. The system creates a resilience multiplier effect:
as the Finnish stoves produce more heat, the fans harvest more thermal energy, increasing their
distribution effectiveness without any external power requirement.
4. Integrated Heating and Cooling System
4.1 Air-Source Heat Pump Primary System
The quadruplex utilizes air-source heat pumps as the primary heating and cooling solution:
● High-efficiency air-source heat pumps rated for cold climate operation (COP of 2.5-3.2 at
-15°C)
● Mini-split configuration with one outdoor unit per two apartments
● Individual zone control within each unit
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© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
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● Smart integration with the building management system
● Low-temperature operation capability down to -25°C
Energy Efficiency Benefits:
● Seasonal COP (Coefficient of Performance): 3.5-4.2
● Electricity consumption: 30-40% of equivalent resistive heating
● Dual functionality providing both heating and cooling
● Variable-speed operation for optimal efficiency at partial loads
Operational Calculations:
● Peak heating requirement per unit: 3.5-4.0kW at -20°C
● Electrical input at peak load: 1.4-1.6kW
● Normal operation electrical demand: 0.8-1.2kW
● Annual energy consumption: 2,800-3,200 kWh per unit
The heat pumps provide a clean, fuel-free primary heating solution that requires only electricity.
During normal grid operation, they deliver the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly
heating and cooling for the development.
4.2 Finnish Stove Secondary/Backup System
The Finnish stoves now serve as a secondary and backup heating system:
● Thermal mass stores 15-25kWh of heat energy per stove
● Zero electrical requirement for operation once lit (initial ignition only: 150W for 5 minutes)
● Biomass fuel flexibility (wood, pellets, agricultural waste, etc.)
● Heat distribution uses self-powered piezoelectric fans
● Integration with the building's SIP construction provides optimal thermal performance
Resilience Benefits:
● Complete independence from utility infrastructure
● Multi-day heating capacity from a single firing
● Can utilize locally-sourced biomass in emergency situations
● Provides radiant heat during complete power outages
________________________________________________
© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
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● Offers cooking surface as bonus functionality
During extended outages or fuel shortages, the Finnish stoves provide a resilient backup that can
maintain comfortable temperatures using virtually any available biomass material (except coal
due to emissions concerns).
4.3 Integrated System Control Strategy
The heating system employs an intelligent control approach:
● Primary reliance on heat pumps during normal grid operation
● Automatic reduction of heat pump operation during peak electricity pricing
● Partial supplementation with Finnish stoves during extreme cold (-20°C and below)
● Complete transition to stove heating during extended outages
● Smart thermostat learning occupancy patterns for optimal comfort and efficiency
● Predictive weather integration to prepare for extreme conditions
This dual-system approach provides optimal efficiency during normal operation while maintaining
exceptional resilience during emergencies, representing a perfect balance between modern
clean energy technology and time-tested heating methods.
5. Integrated Smart Home Technology & IoT System
5.1 Comprehensive IoT Infrastructure
The development incorporates a full-scale IoT infrastructure designed to enhance energy
efficiency, resident comfort, and management oversight:
● Centralized building management system with hierarchical access controls
● Dedicated low-power mesh network for reliable device communication
● Edge computing nodes for rapid response even during internet outages
● Secure API integration with third-party systems
● Remote management capabilities for property managers
5.2 Multi-Level Dashboard System
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© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
Apartment Energy Plan
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The system provides specialized dashboards for different stakeholders:
Management Dashboard:
● Building-wide power consumption and trending
● Drill-down capability to individual unit performance
● Anomaly detection and alerting (e.g., windows open with heat running)
● Predictive maintenance indicators for all major systems
● Generator status, load balancing metrics, and fuel levels
● Remote override capabilities for emergency situations
Resident Dashboard:
● Real-time personal power consumption with historical comparison
● Individual appliance power monitoring and scheduling
● Temperature and environmental controls
● Notification system for conservation opportunities
● Finnish stove performance monitoring
● Personal energy budget tracking and recommendations
Technical Dashboard:
● Detailed system diagnostics and performance metrics
● Load shedding status and priority adjustments
● Firmware/software update management
● System health monitoring and preventative maintenance scheduling
● Integration with building automation protocols
5.3 User Engagement & Conservation Tools
The system empowers residents to control their energy destiny through:
● Gamification of energy conservation with inter-unit friendly competition
● Real-time energy pricing information during normal grid operation
● AI-powered recommendations for optimal appliance usage timing
● Automated detection of wasteful behaviors (open windows with heating, etc.)
● Scheduling tools for load balancing high-consumption activities
________________________________________________
© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
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● Energy usage forecasting based on weather and historical patterns
● Achievement system for meeting conservation goals
5.4 Advanced Smart Home Integration
The IoT system extends beyond power management to enhance quality of life:
● Temperature and humidity monitoring in each room
● Occupancy-based lighting and climate control
● Air quality monitoring and ventilation management
● Smart entry systems with resident-controlled guest access
● Leak detection and automatic water shut-off
● Security monitoring with management notification
● Integration with Finnish stove controls for optimal heat management
6. Cost-Benefit Analysis
6.1 Initial Investment
Cost Range (USD)
$3,000-$4,000
$2,500-$3,500
$8,000-$12,000
$1,500-$2,500
$800-$1,200
$3,000-$4,000
$6,000-$8,000
________________________________________________
© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
Apartment Energy Plan
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$5,000-$7,000
$29,800-$42,200
6.2 Return on Investment
The integrated system provides ROI through:
● 30-40% reduction in normal energy consumption vs. standard construction
● $1,200-$1,800 annual utility savings per building
● 15-20 year life expectancy for major components
● Enhanced property value (10-15% premium for resilient, efficient housing)
● Tenant retention benefits from enhanced reliability and transparency
Payback period: 8-12 years for energy efficiency components, with additional value in resilience
during grid instability events common in the region.
10. Implementation Roadmap
10.1 Construction Phase Integration
● SIP panel fabrication with pre-installed electrical conduits and junction boxes
● Centralized utility room with adequate ventilation for generator
● Proper venting and chimney installation for Finnish stoves
● Gray water collection and micro-turbine integration
● Rainwater harvesting system with filtration and storage
10.2 Testing and Commissioning
● Individual system component testing
● Load shedding simulation and validation
● Generator load testing at various capacity levels
● Dashboard and monitoring system verification
● Full-system outage simulation
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© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
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● Off-grid operation trial period
11. Conclusion
The integrated power system for the Kyiv quadruplex development represents a balanced
approach to energy efficiency, resilience, and user engagement. Our calculations validate that
the system meets the 40 amp per unit target while providing robust emergency power
capabilities. The innovative combination of air-source heat pumps, Finnish stoves, self-powered
fans, micro-turbines, and smart load management creates a comprehensive solution that
addresses the unique challenges of the local environment.
This system provides unprecedented off-grid capability, allowing residents to maintain
comfortable living conditions indefinitely during extended utility outages. The dual heating
system, water independence through rainwater harvesting, and intelligent power management
create a model of resilience particularly valuable in regions facing infrastructure challenges.
The transparent monitoring system empowers residents to participate actively in energy
conservation while ensuring comfort and essential services during outages. This development
represents not just housing, but a forward-thinking approach to community resilience that could
serve as a model for future developments throughout Ukraine and beyond.
Appendix A: Load Calculations During Grid Outage
Time Period
Priority 1 Load
Priority 2
Load
Priority 3
Load
Total
Load
Generator
Capacity
First 30 min
1,650W
1,000W
500W
3,150W
10,000-12,000W
30min-6hrs
1,650W
1,200W
800W
3,650W
10,000-12,000W
6hrs+ (night)
1,400W
800W
0W
2,200W
10,000-12,000W
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© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
Apartment Energy Plan
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6hrs+ (day)
1,200W
1,000W
1,000W
3,200W
10,000-12,000W
Appendix B: Complete Appliance Power Requirements
Appliance
Startup
Power
Running
Power
Energy Efficiency Rating
Induction cooktop (2 burner)
2,200W
1,800W
A++
Convection oven
3,500W
3,000W
A+
LED lighting (full unit)
120W
100W
A+++
Refrigerator (energy-efficient)
600W
150W
A++
Piezoelectric fans (each)
60W
50W
A++
Water pump
1,500W
750W
A+
Finnish stove ignition
200W
150W
N/A
Typical medical equipment
800W
500W
Varies
Water heater (on-demand)
2,500W
1,500W
A+
Charging stations
150W
100W
A+
Appendix C: Generator Fuel Consumption Data
Load Percentage
Propane
Consumption
Gasoline
Consumption
Runtime (250L Propane)
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© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com
Apartment Energy Plan
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25%
0.45 kg/kWh
0.7 L/kWh
76 hours
50%
0.55 kg/kWh
0.9 L/kWh
46 hours
75%
0.65 kg/kWh
1.2 L/kWh
32 hours
100%
0.75 kg/kWh
1.5 L/kWh
22 hours
________________________________________________
© North Star Group, Inc. 2024 All rights reserved.
19901 Quail Circle
Fairhope AL 36532
701-770-9118
michaelh@nsgia.com