How CHP Works

Gas or LPG are the common fuels used to drive the engine which drives a generator, the waste heat from which is used to heat the primary central heating circuit. A micro CHP unit heats the home in the same way as a gas boiler, but also generates electricity.

For larger scale operations, biomass can be used as the fuel to make it a truly renewable solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About CHP

1. Is this a new technology?
The first commercial CHP plant was built by Thomas Edison in 1882. However, the first micro-CHP unit became available in the UK in 2010.

2. What does a CHP unit look like?
Micro-CHP systems are similar in size and shape to ordinary, domestic boilers. They can be wall hung or floor standing.

3. How can I tell if it would work for me?
As a general approach, you need to have a high and constant demand for heat energy, and this will dictate the boiler size. Once this is determined, then with assistance from an MCS-certified supplier, you will be able to calculate how much electricity will be generated. You will need to have an idea of how much electricity that you normally use to know if this will benefit you.

Costs & Grants for CHP

A domestic CHP boiler will cost around £6,500 – £8,500. Servicing costs at intervals of every 12 months are similar to a standard boiler, but it will need a specialist to carry out the service.

Feed-in Tariffs
Micro-CHP is eligible for Feed-in Tariffs, earning 12.89p for each kWh of electricity generated by a domestic system and 4.64p for each kWh of electricity exported to the national grid.

Benefits & Rewards of CHP

By generating electricity, a micro-CHP unit can save on electrical running costs. A domestic CHP unit can reduce yearly fuel bills by up to £600. In addition to this, micro-CHP units are included within the Government’s Feed-in Tariff scheme. A domestic CHP unit can also cut household carbon emissions by up to 40%.