Technologies
CHP systems use both on-site generators to produce electricity and heat recovery technologies to collect and utilize waste heat from the generator. Common on-site generators for CHP systems include reciprocating engines, gas turbines, steam turbines, stirling engines, and fuel cells. Common heat uses are recovery to drive a steam turbine generator, use in industrial processes, use to offset boiler needs, and use to cool spaces through absorption chilling and desiccant dehumidification.

Power Generation

Thermal Energy

Emissions Control

CHP Fuels

The main components of a CHP system are:

• A prime mover which produces the electricity
• A heat recovery system to recover the waste heat from the prime mover
• A control system
• An exhaust system
• An acoustic enclosure

CHP systems come in a range of sizes, from household-scale and up, but they are most feasible in larger commercial buildings, multi-building facilities such as colleges and universities, and industries.

Natural gas is the most popular fuel type used in existing CHP systems. Over 60% of the CHP systems operating in the Gulf Coast region utilize this fossil fuel. However, CHP systems can run on a variety of fuels such as methane gas from landfills and biogas from agricultural operations.