The Benefits of Choosing a Communal Heating System
Commonly referred to as Combined Heat and Power (CHP), a communal heating system is an extremely efficient process which generates both heat and power at the same time. Traditionally this was achieved via a boiler and power station.
By being a by-product of the electricity generation process CHP is a more streamlined process, which is far more environmentally friendly – to the extent it is capable of reducing carbon emissions by around one third.
The reason a CHP system is so much more efficient is because it utilises the heat which would typically be ‘left over’ in a traditional (electric or mechanically-powered system). In doing so it works out far more cost-effective for any business – regardless of sector. Government energy experts say it can reduce energy costs by around one fifth.
Where can a communal heating system be used?
A CHP system can be used anywhere from a small domestic setting (ie a house) to a large business and public sector network, such as a hospital. Within this range leisure centres, hotels, prisons, offices, schools and large housing developments have all benefitted from CHP.
Benefits of installing a communal heating system
- Increased fuel efficiency. CHP requires less fuel to produce a desired energy output. It also results in very little energy wastage due to the avoidance of transmission and distribution losses (the latter caused by electricity travelling via power lines). Because of this, CHPs current efficiency rating sits at around 80 per cent.
- Cuts down on costs. Companies can save around 20 per cent of their energy costs by changing from a traditional to a CHP system. Not only that, but CHP can provide a ‘hedge’ against electricity increases.
- Better for the environment. Carbon emissions are greatly reduced when using a CHP system. This is because less fuel is burned per unit of energy output. Again, losses which would normally result via transmission and distribution, are avoided which greenhouses gases and other air pollutants are reduced. Current predictions are that it reduces emissions by around 30 per cent.
- Avoids network losses. Companies can be reassured that the overall increased working efficiency of a CHP system means that it’s less likely to have problems and stop working (even in the event of severe grid disruption). This means it not only saves businesses money in lost production, but also proves less of a health risk for employees.
Find out how CHP can benefit your business or organisation by calling our expert team on 01934 862264 or taking a look through our website www.Helec.co.uk today