Step 1 - check demand
CHP operates most efficiently and generates greater cost and carbon emissions savings if it is running constantly and, preferably, at full output. 4,000 operating hours is usually the minimum requirement to achieve an acceptable return on investment from CHP.
Analysing gas and electrical energy usage will help profile the demand. The Remeha CHP team will advise on this as part of the initial feasibility study to determine whether CHP is suitable for the building.
Step 2 – size accurately
Is the CHP correctly sized? Get the sizing right and a continuously-running CHP unit will generate low cost, low carbon electricity as a by-product of producing base load heating.
Oversize the unit and the CHP will shut down more frequently in periods of low demand, resulting in a high number of stop/starts.
Unfortunately, there is no straightforward way to size CHP as each building will have unique requirements. However, Remeha’s CHP experts will provide support to achieve optimum sizing, and so minimise the total costs of energy supply for the site.
Step 3 – design for success
Getting the most from CHP should not mean sacrificing another product’s efficiency. Remeha provides schematics and exemplar drawings to help ensure that the hydraulic design enables each component to achieve its highest possible efficiency. This will guarantee the longest possible running hours from the system and the greatest economic benefits.
Step 4 – implement a service plan
Like all heating equipment, CHP requires routine maintenance to maximise its performance and benefits. That is why Remeha offers a choice of service plans to optimise the operational life of its R-Gen CHP units.
Each programme includes regular inspections to analyse and monitor engine oil, water quality and NOx emission levels, and check and replace service parts where necessary. The use of Remeha’s trained CHP engineers to commission and service the CHP units means minimal disruption.
Step 5 – monitor remotely
Approximately 85 per cent of reported CHP faults are able to be corrected and reset remotely, reducing downtime, inconvenience and unnecessary costs. For this reason, Remeha includes remote monitoring in all of its CHP service plans and its R-Gen CHP units are supplied with a gateway as standard, to enable visualisation.
For more information on Remeha’s CHP range, visit remeha.co.uk/products/chp
To arrange a Remeha CPD on CHP, contact: sales@remeha.co.uk