The optimization of synthesis, design and operation in trigeneration systems for building applications is a quite complex task, due to the high number of decision variables, the presence of irregular heat, cooling and electric load profiles and the variable electricity price. Consequently, computer-aided techniques are usually adopted to achieve the optimal solution, based either on iterative techniques, linear or non-linear programming or evolutionary search. Large efforts have been made in improving algorithm efficiency, which have resulted in an increasingly rapid convergence to the optimal solution and in reduced calculation time; robust algorithm have also been formulated, assuming stochastic behaviour for energy loads and prices. This paper is based on the assumption that margins for improvements in the optimization of trigeneration systems still exist, which require an in-depth understanding of plant's energetic behaviour. Robustness in the optimization of trigeneration systems has more to do with a "correct and comprehensive" than with an "efficient" modelling, being larger efforts required to energy specialists rather than to experts in efficient algorithms. With reference to a mixed integer linear programming model implemented in MatLab for a trigeneration system including a pressurized (medium temperature) heat storage, the relevant contribute of thermoeconomics and energo-environmental analysis in the phase of mathematical modelling and code testing are shown. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.