Optimization of micro-CHP systems

Funding Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Technologie
Duration November 2011 till April 2015
Contact Dr. Ing. Peter Tzscheutschler

 

Today's micro-CHP systems are generally operated using heat. The electrical energy generated in parallel with the heat is fed into the power grid if there is a surplus. Electricity-led operation would allow generation to be adapted to the electricity requirements of the supply object, thereby improving economic efficiency. The key element here is the heat storage system, which allows heat demand and electricity generation to be decoupled. In this way, micro-CHP systems can be operated as active components of a smart grid in the future.

 

 

In addition to the economic design of the overall system, the main focus of this project is on optimizing the operation of the CHP module and the management of the heat storage system. Independent electricity-led operation is limited by the size of the heat storage unit and the limited heat demand of the supply object. The aim of this project is to identify optimization potential for increasing the efficiency of micro-CHP systems and to carry out an energy-economic evaluation.

The project is part of the IEA/EBC Annex 54, "Analysis of Micro-Generation & Related Energy Technologies in Buildings".