by Jbs100509f3 — October 7, 2009—The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently presented Energy Star Combined Heat and Power (CHP) awards to four organizations for using highly efficient systems to save energy, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce air pollution. EPA notes that the projects are reaching operating efficiencies of at least 50 percent, whereas conventional fossil-fueled power plants produce power with a typical efficiency of about 30 percent.
This year’s winners are:
According to EPA, cogeneration (CHP) is up to 60 percent more efficient than producing heat and power separately. CHP is the simultaneous production of electricity and heat from a single fuel source, such as natural gas, biomass, biogas, coal, waste heat, or oil. CHP is not a single technology, but an integrated energy system that can be modified depending upon the needs of the energy user.
Since 1999, EPA has given the Energy Star CHP Award to recognize organizations and institutions that install exceptionally efficient CHP systems. In 2001, EPA formed a CHP Partnership working with organizations to reduce the environmental impact of power generation. In addition, the partnership supports the development of new projects that have significant energy, environmental and economic benefits.
