Optimum Prime Mover Sizing in Combined Heat and Power Systems Mehdi Aghaei Meybodi Supervised by: Prof. Masud Behnia School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering The University of Sydney

The term combined heat and power (CHP) refers to the simultaneous production of electrical (or mechanical) and thermal energy from a single primary source.

The advantages of CHP systems The simultaneous production of useful thermal and electrical energy in CHP systems lead to increased fuel efficiency. CHP units can be strategically located at the point of energy use. Such onsite generation avoids the transmission and distribution losses associated with electricity purchased via the grid from central stations. CHP is versatile and can be coupled with existing and planned technologies for many different applications in the industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. Due to lower consumption of fuel, CHP systems offer significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to separate heat and power production systems.

CHP versus separate heat and power production (EPA, USA)

Optimum selection of prime movers in CHP systems is of crucial importance due to the fact that inappropriate choices reduce the benefits of these systems considerably. In the selection procedure, the performance characteristics of prime movers as well as economic parameters should be taken into account. In evaluating CHP systems from an economic point of view both capital and maintenance costs should be considered.

Studied Prime Movers Gas Turbine Internal Combustion Engines (Diesel Engine, Gas Engine) Microturbine Steam Turbine Stirling Engine

Our Research Focus Develop a thermo-economic approach to selecting the optimum prime movers in CHP systems. Annual cash flow (ACF) and net present value (NPV) methods are applied. The impact of carbon tax as well as the emission trading scheme is studied.