Micro Combined Heat & Power
What is Micro CHP?
Micro Combined Heat and Power (Micro CHP) is the term used to describe the simultaneous production of domestic electricity and heat for individual homes.
A boiler similar to a conventional gas boiler transmits heat and hot water throughout the property, but the micro CHP system also generates electricity.
What are the benefits?
Micro CHP could provide as much as 20% of the UK’s electricity supply, more than we currently get from nuclear power generation. Excess electricity can be fed back to the national grid, helping to reduce energy costs. This type of energy production converts waste gases into electricity, reducing emissions into the atmosphere and working more efficiently to produce power.
How does it work?
Natural gas is used by a boiler system to generate heat and electricity. Up to 80% of the energy generated is converted into heat and circulated within a hot water and central heating system, whilst up to 25% is converted to electricity. As little as 5% is lost in flue gases as opposed to 20% lost with a conventional boiler.
Grants and funding
As part of the Low Carbon Building Programme (LCBP), the Department for Business Enterprise and Energy Reform (BERR) are making grants available only to those who use a certified installer and products. Grants are available for private householders, community organisations, public, private and non-profit sectors. For more information about LCBP, visit the BERR website at www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk
More information - Combined Heat & Power Association: www.chpa.co.uk