CHP (Combined Heat & Power)

Combined Heat and Power, or CHP (sometimes co-generation or cogen), is the simultaneous generation of usable heat and power (electricity) in a single process. In other words the heat produced during electricity generation is used for hot water and space heating instead of being released to the atmosphere as a by-product of power generation. By capturing the heat that would otherwise be wasted CHP systems are able to use 90% or more of the energy from the fuel.

Suitability

CHP is best suited to buildings with a constant heat and electrical demand, generally a heat to electricity ratio of 2:1. There are definite advantages of having some "ownership" of one's electrical power supply in this way, as thermal and electrical energy is produced when needed as apposed to when there is good wind or sun.

• Large Scale CHP Systems are suited for larger industrial and commercial processes such as chemistry/ pharmaceutical plants, breweries, airports, universities and food processing plants.
• Small Scale CHP is particularly suitable for applications such as hotels, hospitals and leisure centres, where there is a steady demand for heat and power throughout the year.
• Micro-CHP are mass produced CHP units that are suitable for domestic and small business applications.