Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Enginuity Power Systems have made an exciting discovery in the field of energy efficiency.
They have developed a micro-combined heat and power (mCHP) prototype that utilizes a piston engine, achieving an impressive energy efficiency of over 93%.
This innovative system, designed to replace backup generators and traditional gas hot water heaters, offers multiple benefits by seamlessly switching between natural gas, hydrogen, and biogas, while also incorporating battery storage and solar energy.
A team of researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Enginuity Power Systems has achieved a major breakthrough in energy efficiency with their micro-combined heat and power (mCHP) prototype.
This groundbreaking technology utilizes a piston engine and has demonstrated an overall energy efficiency greater than 93%. Let’s explore how this innovation works and the benefits it offers.
The mCHP prototype is designed to replace traditional backup generators and gas hot water heaters. What sets it apart is its ability to switch between different fuel sources, including natural gas, hydrogen, and biogas.
Additionally, it incorporates battery storage and solar energy, making it a versatile and sustainable solution.
One of the key advantages of this prototype is its environmental friendliness and cost-effectiveness. By capturing and reusing heat that would otherwise be wasted, the mCHP system provides thermal energy for buildings on a small scale. This process ensures a higher efficiency compared to conventional single-functional equipment.
The researchers evaluated an mCHP system that utilizes a four-stroke opposed piston engine. The results exceeded expectations, showcasing its exceptional performance. Even without providing heat, the mCHP demonstrated over 35% electrical energy efficiency in lean burn mode, surpassing the capabilities of traditional systems.
This exciting innovation has the potential to significantly benefit small residential and commercial buildings, particularly in remote and underserved communities. By utilizing the mCHP system, these communities can enhance their energy efficiency and reduce their environmental impact.
The benefits of the mCHP prototype extend beyond energy efficiency. Its ability to switch between different fuel sources makes it versatile and adaptable to various energy needs. Moreover, by incorporating battery storage and solar energy, the prototype offers a reliable and sustainable energy solution for both residential and commercial buildings.
The successful development of the mCHP prototype is a significant step toward improving energy efficiency in various sectors.
It showcases the potential for more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy systems. As researchers continue to refine this technology, it holds promise for widespread adoption, leading us towards a greener and more efficient future.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Enginuity Power Systems have achieved a remarkable breakthrough in energy efficiency with their micro-combined heat and power (mCHP) prototype.
By utilizing a piston engine, this innovative system surpasses an overall energy efficiency of 93%.
Its ability to switch between different fuel sources, incorporate battery storage and solar energy, and provide thermal energy for buildings makes it a versatile and sustainable solution.
This technology has the potential to benefit small residential and commercial buildings, particularly in remote and underserved communities.
With ongoing research and development, the mCHP prototype represents a significant advancement toward a greener and more energy-efficient future.
