Feasibility Analysis of Micro-CHP Systems for Residential Building Applications

In this paper, an energy and economic analysis of micro-CHP systems is presented, to evaluate their feasibility as an alternative to household boilers. The considered CHP systems are based on innovative technologies, already available, but not yet widespread and industrialized, or available in the short-term. The considered technologies are external combustion systems, such as the ones based on Stirling engines, micro Rankine cycles and thermo-photovoltaic generators. With reference to these three typologies of micro-CHP systems, analyses are carried-out in order to evaluate the energy performance and the payback period, with reference to natural gas and electric energy tariffs in the present European market scenario. In particular, since these CHP systems are intended as an alternative to household boilers, the heat that has to be produced (and used) and, consequently, the operating hours of the CHP systems, are determined. This allows the estimation of investment payback time of these technologies with respect to traditional household boilers