Combined heat and power (CHP)
What is it?
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems look similar to a gas boiler, but they generate heat and power (usually electricity) at the same time. This makes them more efficient than standard boilers
How does it work?
CHP systems are usually fuelled by gas, and produce electrical power and thermal energy from the single fuel source.
In its simplest form a CHP system comprises a gas turbine, engine or steam turbine to drive an alternator. This generates electricity, which is used primarily on-site. The waste heat, in the form of steam or hot water, is collected and can be used to provide community heating and space heating.
Not only does CHP enable the conversion of a high proportion of otherwise waste heat to usable heat, it is very efficient because power is generated close to where it is being used therefore minimising electricity transmission.
Who is it suitable for?
There is a large potential for small-scale CHP in the UK. The technology is suitable for use throughout the commercial, industrial and public sectors, and can be used to provide district heating systems for small communities. For a site to support a successful CHP installation, it should typically have a heat and power requirement for at least 4,500 hours/year (although it could be cost effective with fewer operating hours), generally, the greater the annual period of demand, the greater the benefits. The electricity generated can be used or sold to the local grid.
Benefits
- Offers reliable, low-cost heat source: a 25-35% saving in energy use can be achieved
- CHP can be 80% efficient, compared to 58% in conventional systems
- CO2 emissions and associated climate change impacts are reduced
- There is substantial political and financial support for its use by the government
- Payback times are relatively low
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