Micro-CHP systems produce electrical power and thermal energy from a single energy source – and could save a lot of energy when compared to traditional systems (such as condensing boilers and grid-supplied electricity).
The field trial:
- 87 (micro-CHP) systems were installed and monitored between 2005 and 2008.
- including 72 domestic Stirling engines and 15 internal combustion (IC) engines.
- measured against over 30 “A-rated” condensing boilers to provide a robust baseline.
- at each site up to 20 parameters were measured at five-minute intervals.
The key findings in the final report were:
- 12% to 21% carbon savings
In small commercial applications, where IC-engine Micro-CHP systems were installed as the lead boiler.
- 4% to 14% carbon savings
In houses with higher heat demands.
- Potential market of at least 4 million homes in the UK
If costs can be reduced and performance continues to improve.
View the Micro-CHP Accelerator final report.
The interim dataset from 2007, including details of the field trial methodology, is available on request. The full dataset will be available shortly.