For Developers > How you cut CO2 Emissions > Low Carbon Techonologies > CHP
Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
CHP consists of an engine, driving a generator to produce electricity that also uses the heat from engine exhaust to provide central heating and domestic hot water. It can run on a variety of fuels and is much more efficient than a conventional boiler.
CHP units are usually installed to provide heat and electricity to a number of households or buildings via a community district energy scheme.
Performance
The higher efficiency of a CHP unit means that there are less CO2 emissions than from a gas-fired boiler or electricity from the national grid. Generating electricity locally also reduces losses of power from transmitting electricity over large distances.
Feasibility
CHP is most suitable for sites with a constant heat demand, such as nursing homes and mixed-use developments.
Heat distribution networks should be configured to allow distribution of heat from a centralised energy centre, i.e. a community heating network.
Due to the communal nature of the system, commitment to management and maintenance must be on a long-term basis.
Cost
Systems range in size and complexity from a small system for one building to large community energy schemes for hundreds of dwellings and businesses. Therefore costs vary considerably from a few thousand pounds to millions.
Planning issues
There may be some issues with noise and conservation. Planners should be consulted along with the local community. Some building work will almost always be required for larger systems.
Energy Services Company (ESCo)
For large community heating schemes an energy services company (ESCo) could be consulted. An ESCo designs, installs and manages energy services for an extended period of time. Financing a project through an ESCo can transfer the capital costs and risk of the project to a third party.
For more information please see the CHP fact sheet.
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