Q: What is a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system?
A: A CHP system generates both electricity and usable heat from a single fuel source. It captures heat that would normally be wasted, achieving efficiencies of over 90%
Q: How much can CHP reduce electricity costs?
A: CHPs can generate electricity at approximately 10p per kWh compared to 25p per kWh from the grid, delivering significant annual cost savings
Q: What are the typical annual savings?
A: For a site using 3m kWh per year, grid electricity would cost £750,000. Based on a CHP producing electricity of 10p/kWh, the cost savings would be £450,000
Q: How much CO₂ can CHP reduce?
A: CHP systems typically reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30-50%, but the actual figure will be dependent on the CHP specified and other factors
Q: How quickly can a CHP system be installed?
A: Most CHP systems can be fully installed and commissioned in around 6 months and immediately start delivering cost savings
Q: What is the typical payback period?
A: Most CHP systems achieve payback within 12–18 months due to significant energy cost savings
Q: How efficient are CHP systems?
A: CHP systems achieve efficiencies of over 90%, compared to around 50% for conventional electricity generation
Q: Who benefits most from CHP?
A: CHPs are ideal for any company using significant amounts of electricity, including manufacturing facilities, hotels, hospitals, leisure centres, universities and commercial buildings
Q: Does CHP improve energy security?
A: Yes, CHPs reduce reliance on grid electricity and protects against energy price increases and supply interruptions
Q: What is the lifespan of a CHP system?
A: CHP systems typically operate for 10–20 years while delivering continuous cost savings
Q: Can CHPs be installed where there are no grid connections?
A: CHPs can be installed in almost any location, even where there are no grid connections; in such situations they would be powered by LNG stored in tanks adjacent to the CHP
Q: Is it quicker to get a grid connection or have a CHP installed?
A: CHPs can be installed in around six months, compared to connecting to the grid, which in parts of the UK, can take years to achieve