Different directives on European as well as on German level target energy savings through an increase in energy efficiency. One technology suitable therefore is cogeneration. Large scale cogeneration systems have been in place for the last decades, supplying district heating systems in residential areas or large industrial plants. Meanwhile also small scale cogeneration (micro-cogeneration), dedicated for the supply of single buildings, is entering the market. To calculate the potential of this technology in Germany, technical data of micro CHP systems and performance data from a field-testing campaign and laboratory experiments have been taken into account. The business areas were pre-selected with respect to a significant heat demand throughout the year. Accordingly the field test comprised also a butcher shop, a small hotel, or a fitness center. To derive the economic potential, cost data of the systems, tariffs for electricity and natural gas have been included as well as the current regulatory framework. The potential of Micro CHP in the small business sector in Germany has then been projected from statistical data. Results show, that power generation from CHP plants can contribute to the integration of renewable resources in the supply system. The higher heat demand during the summer is an advantage of non-residential applications and increases the profitability of micro CHP systems. However the potential for micro-CHP systems in the sector trade, commerce and services (TCS) is limited.     «

Different directives on European as well as on German level target energy savings through an increase in energy efficiency. One technology suitable therefore is cogeneration. Large scale cogeneration systems have been in place for the last decades, supplying district heating systems in residential areas or large industrial plants. Meanwhile also small scale cogeneration (micro-cogeneration), dedicated for the supply of single buildings, is entering the market. To calculate the potential of this...     »