Combined heat and power as a platform for clean energy systems

Many regions and countries including Europe, China, Japan, Canada are expanding their combined heat power (CHP) systems, often coupled with renewable fuels, to provide platforms for clean energy. In the United States, however, CHP market shares are. A cost-benefit analysis of systems in Georgia (an industry-heavy state Southeastern U.S.) suggests that benefits from reduced fuel costs steam production far exceed installation O&M costs. We estimate other benefits, as well, jobs, cleaner air, public health, a 2–13% reduction Georgia’s total carbon emissions. However, capital-intensive nature can be difficult host industries, utilities reluctant purchase excess electricity. Possible approaches address these barriers include energy portfolio standards, regulatory reform, financial incentives such tax credits. By developing comprehensive case study methodology evaluating expansion analysts examine cogeneration particular industry profiles, costs, policies. Analysis key stakeholders policy options adds social behavioral insights design effective government interventions capture economic systems.