Combined Heat & Power Technologies
Combined Heat and Power (CHP, also known as cogeneration) can provide thermal energy for buildings or processes, while simultaneously generating part of the electricity needed at the site. CHP or cogeneration is the sequential production of two forms of useful energy from a single fuel source.
A CHP system recovers the heat from electricity generation for productive uses such as heating, cooling, dehumidification, and other processes—heat that is usually wasted at conventional power plants. And because the electricity is generated near the point of use, it is subject to fewer transmission losses than electricity supplied by distant central power plants.
Centers
Regional centers have been established in selected parts of the country to facilitate deployment of CHP technologies through:
- Educating regional players on benefits of CHP technologies, while reducing perceived risks;
- Providing project-specific support;
- Providing feedback to DOE and industry regarding future R&D program needs; and
- Interacting with states to encourage a favorable policy environment for CHP.
CHP Application Centers Listing
Midwest CHP Application Center
Workshops
On June 6, 2006 the Office of Energy & Defense Development in conjunction with the Indiana State Department of Agriculture and the Midwest CHP Application Center hosted a successful one day workshop to discuss these technologies. Over 90 individuals attended representing the industries of energy, agriculture and food processing. This workshop was a great success and hopefully the first of many.
Powerpoint Presentations
Insights from System Developers
Utilities and Indiana Plans
Next Steps
CHP is a technology that is currently available. It greatly increases the total efficiency by lessening the amount of generation and distribution losses. Source: U.S. DOE - EERE
Links
- U.S. Department of Energy - This includes Publications, Presentations and a Toolbox
