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Small-Scale Combined Heat and Power Systems: The Prospects for a Distributed Micro-Generator in the ‘Net-Zero’ Transition within the UK

Author

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  • Geoffrey P. Hammond

    (Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
    Institute for Sustainable Energy and the Environment ( I•SEE ), University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK)

  • Adam A. Titley

    (Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK)

Abstract

Small-scale combined heat and power (micro-CHP or mCHP) plants generate heat in the process of localised electricity production that can usefully be captured and employed for domestic space and water heating. Studies of the relative merits of three alternative network-connected mCHP plants are reviewed based respectively on an Internal Combustion engine (ICE), a Stirling engine (SE), and a Fuel Cell (FC). Each plant will, in most cases, result in lower carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emissions, relative to those from the most efficient condensing boilers. In addition, they lead to operational cost savings for the consumer, depending on house type. However, their capital costs are presently more expensive than a conventional boiler, with the FC being prohibitively so. The ICE and SE variants display the greatest economic and environmental benefit. Nevertheless, the performance and costs associated with these innovative technologies have rapidly improved over the last decade or so. Comparisons are also made with heat pumps that are seen as a major low-carbon competitor by the United Kingdom (UK) Government. Finally, the potential role of micro-CHP as part of a cluster of different micro-generators attached to contrasting dwellings is considered. The review places mCHP systems in the context of the UK transition pathway to net-zero CO 2 emissions by 2050, whilst meeting residential energy demand. However, the lessons learned are applicable to many industrialised countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Geoffrey P. Hammond & Adam A. Titley, 2022. "Small-Scale Combined Heat and Power Systems: The Prospects for a Distributed Micro-Generator in the ‘Net-Zero’ Transition within the UK," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(16), pages 1-32, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:15:y:2022:i:16:p:6049-:d:893548
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Allen, S.R. & Hammond, G.P. & McManus, M.C., 2008. "Prospects for and barriers to domestic micro-generation: A United Kingdom perspective," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 85(6), pages 528-544, June.
    2. Hammond, Geoffrey P. & Harajli, Hassan A. & Jones, Craig I. & Winnett, Adrian B., 2012. "Whole systems appraisal of a UK Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) system: Energy, environmental, and economic evaluations," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 40(C), pages 219-230.
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