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Energy Efficiency MeasuresCOMMERCIAL: COMBINED HEAT AND POWERWhenever electricity is generated by using heat to produce mechanical energy to turn the shaft of a generator, substantial thermal losses, typically 60% or more, result. Called the Carnot effect, this law of physics affects all heat engines whether fueled by solid waste, wood, gas, oil, coal, uranium, or the sun. For large power plants located remotely from facilities that could use the heat resulting from the generating process, this thermal energy is wasted. On the other hand, smaller power plants can be located close to or even within facilities which can make good use of the heat resulting from electricity generation, thereby raising the net efficiency of generating electricity by a factor of two or more and saving substantial energy and money. Hospitals, commercial buildings, apartment complexes, and industrial facilities can often take advantage of combined heat and power (CHP) systems. To make them most economical and practical, CHP systems need to have thermal loads somewhat well-matched with the heat supplied through the generation process. In addition to supplying heat for hot water, low pressure steam for heating, sterilizing, and sundry industrial needs, CHP systems can also supply cooling energy via absorption chilling equipment. Important considerations in planning CHP systems include providing for back-up power during periods of maintenance or malfunction, avoiding potential substantial peak demand charges if connected to a utility, and the possibility of selling electricity to the grid when generating more than is needed. For additional information, visit the websites: |
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