Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
When a heat load is present CHP systems are more efficient than utility generated electricity and eliminate transmission costs.
Generators convert fuel to electricity. In a CHP system, the waste heat is also captured. This heat is used to offset or eliminate boiler supplied heat to run a process or heat a space at a facility. Facilities with expensive electricity and a large concurrent thermal load are excellent candidates for CHP installations.
The following ASHRAE rule of thumb, estimates the economic potential of a CHP system based on the relative cost of natural gas and electricity:
Equation 1: Likely that CHP will have a three year payback
Given current gas prices of approximately $6 per GJ, if your electricity price is above 7.8 cents/kWh you should consider a study.
If your electricity price is above 15.6 cents/kWh, then it is likely that a CHP project would have a three year payback.
Enertec Engineers write and stamp engineering studies for CHP systems. Enertec also works closely with industry partners to supply piping designs, heat exchangers and other components to fully integrate your CHP system.