The first thing that comes to mind when we hear the words ‘micro–generation’ is wind turbines and PV panels – not now – as Baxi introduce the Ecogen which is the first, commercially available micro-CHP (Combined Heat and Power) unit for the home.
The transmission of electricity over the grid wastes around 10/12% of power, so local generation can make a real impact in energy production. Yes, you’re still producing electricity through burning fossil fuels, just more efficiently.
The appliance’s Free Piston Stirling Engine (FPSE) generates up to 1kWh of electricity whilst providing abundant supplies of space heating and hot water for the home. The unit responds to an initial heat demand of up to 6kW by igniting the engine gas burner. The heat causes the gas inside the FPSE to expand, moving a piston up and down between a copper coil. As a result, electricity is generated in a similar way to an alternator in a car.
Field trials in over 400 UK homes have shown units can reliably satisfy up to two thirds of a typical household’s electrical requirements. For all electricity generated, the householder will receive 10p/kWh, using the recently announced Government Feed-In Tariffs (FIT) scheme, effective from April 2010. Any unused electricity can be exported back to the grid for which the householder will receive a further 3p/kWh.
Will it work when you have a power cut? Sorry, no! Safety regulations will prevent this.
Combined Heat and Power unit for the home
