Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Systems

Dramatically improve your energy efficiency to save costs, improve resiliency and lower emissions for your business. Cat® provides total CHP solutions with expert service and support.

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Optimized for maximum efficiency
Optimized for maximum efficiency

Combined Heat and Power | CHP | Cogen | Cat | Caterpillar

What Is CHP?

CHP is an extremely efficient system that generates power on your site with cogeneration – producing electricity and thermal energy at the same time. This on-site power plant (or system) leverages the heat your generators produce, rather than wasting it like traditional power plants do.   

As electric rates continue to climb and utility grids strain to meet demand, Combined Heat and Power (CHP), could be the answer you need to overcome these challenges.

CHP customers can also incorporate biogas, biofuels, or hydrogen into their system for further reductions in a site's overall GHG emissions.

What's the difference between CHP and Cogeneration?

CHP is sometimes referred to as “cogeneration” or “cogen,” but the terms aren’t exactly interchangeable. Cogeneration refers to the overall concept of producing electricity and heat from a single fuel source. Combined heat and power, or CHP, is a modern, integrated system that is able to get the most energy efficiency possible out of cogeneration.
 

Benefits of CHP

CHP systems can reach up to 80% efficiency and reduce both the cost and emissions of your facility plant. There may be local tax credits or other incentives which can make your CHP project even more affordable.

Benefits of implementing a CHP system with Cat® include:

·  Increased Efficiency: CHP is typically more energy efficient than traditional electrical heating methods.

·  Lower Energy Costs: Heating and electricity costs can be lowered by leveraging thermal energy.

·  Reduce Emissions: Emissions targets are easier to hit when CHP is used to lower overall greenhouse gas emissions.

Electric Power Plant
Electric Power Plant

How does CHP Work?

CHP systems capture heat produced by gensets and use that heat’s thermal energy for industrial processes. Applications of the thermal energy created by CHP systems can include space heating, water heating, drying, and producing low-pressure steam.

MYTH:

Systems can only work in conjunction with the utility grid. 

REALITY:

CHP can run completely off the power grid, providing heat and power in island mode. 

MYTH:

CHP is not an energy source in itself. It is a method for improving the efficiency of in-place energy systems and fuels. 

REALITY:

CHP systems are optimized for maximum plant efficiency. By making use of otherwise wasted heat, facilities can gain a wide range of advantages. 

MYTH:

CHP is designed for projects needing 24/7, yearlong power. 

REALITY:

CHP can also be used seasonally, providing additional power in extreme temperatures. 

Explore Products for CHP

  • G3520K
    Continuous Rating
    2541/ 2500 ekW @ 1.0pf
    2541/ 2500 ekW @ 1.0pf
    Fuel Type
    Natural Gas & Propane
    Natural Gas & Propane
    Maximum Electrical Efficiency
    46.0%
    46.0%

    G3520K

    From natural gas to biogas, coal mine gases, or hydrogen fuel blends to support combined heat and power (CHP), emergency power, and local grid support applications, Caterpillar has a wide range of reliable gas power solutions.

    Learn More
  • G3516H
    Continuous Rating
    2027 / 2007 ekW @ 1.0pf
    2027 / 2007 ekW @ 1.0pf
    Fuel Type
    Natural Gas, Hydrogen Blend (up to 25%)
    Natural Gas, Hydrogen Blend (up to 25%)
    Maximum Electrical Efficiency
    45.30%
    45.30%

    G3516H

    From natural gas to biogas, coal mine gases, or hydrogen fuel blends to support combined heat and power (CHP), emergency power, and local grid support applications, Caterpillar has a wide range of reliable gas power solutions.

    Learn More
  • CG260-16
    Continuous Rating
    4300 / 4000 ekW @1.0pf
    4300 / 4000 ekW @1.0pf
    Fuel Type
    Natural Gas, Biogas, Coal Gas, Associated Gas, Synthesis Gas, Hydrogen Blend (to 25%)
    Natural Gas, Biogas, Coal Gas, Associated Gas, Synthesis Gas, Hydrogen Blend (to 25%)
    Maximum Electrical Efficiency
    44.1 / 43.8%
    44.1 / 43.8%

    CG260-16

    From natural gas-fueled combined heat and power (CHP) systems and emergency power for facilities, to renewable biogas energy to support the local grid, or electricity generated from coal mine gases, Caterpillar has a wide range of reliable gas power solutions.

    Learn More
  • CG170B-20
    Continuous Rating
    2300 ekW @1.0pf
    2300 ekW @1.0pf
    Fuel Type
    Natural Gas, Biogas, Coal Gas, Hydrogen Blend (up to 25%)
    Natural Gas, Biogas, Coal Gas, Hydrogen Blend (up to 25%)
    Maximum Electrical Efficiency
    45.00%
    45.00%

    CG170B-20

    State-of-the-art components providing more power: the compact design, a focus on a wide range of applications and highest efficiency values of its class make sure of that. Managed by a smart and secure control system, the new CG170B series offers the optimal balance between profitability and reliability.

    Learn More

CHP for Large Buildings and Facilities Across Industries

CHP is used in over 4,400 large buildings and facilities nationwide, including:

INSTITUTIONS

Colleges and universities, hospitals, prisons, and military bases. 

 
MUNICIPAL

K-12 schools, disctrict energy systems, and wastewater treatment facilities. 

 
MANUFACTURERS

Chemical, refining, ethanol, paper, ad food processing. 

 
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

Office buildings, hotels, health clubs, and nursing homes. 

 
RESIDENTIAL

Apartment complexes and planned communities. 

 

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