The same power source that’s keeping the water hot in this facility is also running the lights. That’s because this facility is powered by a combined heat and power system, or CHP.
There are different types of CHP systems. They work on the same principle, just a little differently. Let’s take a look.
Some CHP systems are driven by a combustion turbine or reciprocating engine. In these systems, the fuel goes into the turbine or engine, which powers the generator that produces electricity for use throughout the facility. A heat recovery unit filled with water collects the hot gases from the turbine or engine to create steam or hot water. This thermal energy is used for domestic hot water or space conditioning.
CHP systems can also be driven by a boiler, which uses a steam turbine to power the generator and provide electricity. Because the steam turbine already creates steam or hot water, there’s no need for the heat recovery unit. That steam exhaust is used directly for the same water heating and space conditioning applications.
On top of being more efficient, CHP systems are more reliable. They continue to provide electricity and heating and cooling to your facility when others have lost power. With its efficiency and reliability, it’s fair to say that CHP packs a lot of power into one system.