What is CHP unit?
A CPH unit (combined heat and power, also cogeneration) is an independent power and heat generation unit.
It allows the user to generate power for their building “on site” rather than purchasing power from the grid, and the thermal energy generated in theprocess, can be used for heating, hot domestic water preparation and various technological processes. In power generation, we can achieve primary energy savings of over 25% compared to separate generation.
The main element of a CHP unit is a fuel-fired four-stroke engine, which converts the combustion energy of the fuel to thermal and mechanical energy; the latter is then converted to electricity by a generator.We therefore speak of Combined Heat and Power units.
The exhaust gases are not discharged directly into the environment; they flow through a flue gas/heat exchanger where heat is extracted from them.
The heat exchanger is connected to the external (secondary) circuit of the transmission line.
The control unit takes full control over operation of the entire CHP unit system. The control system is of key importance for proper operation as well as for diagnostics and elimination of potential defects.
A CHP system effectively transforms 90 % of the energy input, i.e. approximately 40 % as electricity and 50 % as thermal energy. Energy losses of a CHP unit amount to approximately 10 %.
Target users
Due to the wide applicability of CHP units, great technological progress can be observed in their production, which is mainly reflected in their greater energy efficiency. The greatest advantage of a cogeneration system is the reliability of power supply, as it operates independently from the public power supply. Additionally, it is an excellent investment for buildings in which heating of larger rooms is required.
A wide range of CHP units of different nominal powers (rated power from 50kW to 5MW) provides supply for the widest group of users:
- large and small production plants
- Apartment blocks
- Nursing homes and primary care centres.
- Swimming pools
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Schools and Education facilities
- Shopping centres and sports halls.
- Hotels
Advantages of a CHP unit
Cogeneration is the most energy efficient method of fuel utilisation.
Main advantages for the CONSUMER: lower electricity and heating costs,
- lower operating costs,
- higher energy yields,
- higher power supply reliability,
- power consumption independent of the public power supply
Main advantages for the COMMUNITY and the ENVIRONMENT:
- substantial savings in primary energy,
- production of environmentally friendly energy,
- lower emissions of greenhouse gases (CO2) and emissions of other gaseous pollutants (CO, SO2 and NOX),
- excellent biodegradability of the fuel,
- ecological fuel sources (natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, fuel or vegetable oil, biodiesel)