If you have stumbled across this article, chances are you're probably looking to acquire additional information on Combined Heat & Power, typically referred to as CHP.
The purpose of this article is to simplify the approach of determining whether or not CHP is a realistic option for your facility, company or organization.
Of course, whenever we're dealing with the on-site electric generation and the useful application of the waste-heat associated with that generation, we're not talking about simple things. However, the process for determining the potential for CHP is something that truly can be simplified and FPUC argues that it's really just a matter of 1-2-3. The phrase CHP in 1-2-3 refers to the 3 steps that can be taken to deterime the potential of CHP at any given facility.
The first step to use the available CHP resources such as the EPA’s CHP spark spread estimator to give a very basic overview of the potential for CHP for a particular facility. See October’s CHP article for more info on the spark spread estimator.
If the initial assessment results from tools such as the spark spread estimator create initial positive criteria for CHP, move on to step two.
Step Two is where some initial cost analysis is conducted to determine what type of simple pay-back savings would be available for various CHP systems. Tools for conducting such an analysis are made available by the EPA via their Level One CHP feasibility analysis. Like with Step One, Step Two can also be performed by the facility manager and or business or organization owner and typically doesn't require any cost or outside contracting. More info on the Level One CHP feasibility analysis can be found within the EPA’s website.
Now, if the results from using the CHP Level One feasibility analysis are positive and there is still interest in pursuing a CHP Project, the Third step is to conduct an engineering grade analysis, which the EPA calls a Level Two CHP cost feasibility analysis.
The step three, is something that must be performed by an accredited engineering firm who specializes in the design operation and modeling of CHP systems.
These are typically 3 to 6 months projects we are a series of site visits, data collection, energy modeling, and cost scenarios are developed by the engineering firm and delivered to the facilty owner. The step does require contracting expertise and the budget requirements for this work should be specific to the complexity and the type of facility that you have, and typically range from $10,000 to $30,000. For Level 2 CHP Feasibility Checklist click the link at the end of the article.
FPUC is also available to assist customers existing customers who are currently seeking to expand the efficiency of their buildings by using CHP, and may also be available to assist non-customers who are considering a CHP system as well. FPUC doesn't necessarily require you to be a customer in order to service it or request information on the process and potential assistance from FPU and doing such a CHP system.
Links for the articles and tools and references mentioned within this article for steps 12 and three can be accessed at the link below.
In closing, FPU is strongly committed to cultivating the CHP market Florida and is seeking those partners who wish to push the future of energy in Florida.
For a For Level 2 CHP Feasibility Checklist click the link below:
