The Integration of Micro-CHP and Biofuels for Decentralized CHP Applications

Renewable micro-CHP systems are a combination of micro-CHP technology and renewable energy technology, such as biomass gasification systems or solar concentrators. The integration of renewable energy sources with micro-CHP allows for the development of sustainable energy systems with the potential for high market penetration; a cost-effective and reliable heat and electricity supply; and a highly beneficial environmental and economical impact on a pan-European scale. The purpose of this chapter is to present results from the European coordination action project MICROCHEAP that intended to bring together industrial specialists and research experts to focus entirely on renewable micro-CHP technology, co-ordinate and steer research in this field, and highlight the most promising technologies with the highest potential for market penetration in existing and future market conditions. The chapter discusses the state of the art technological options in the field of renewable micro-CHP with biofuels with regards to technology, cost, and environmental impacts and presents a market survey concerning the possibility of future penetration of the technology in Europe. The results will provide a coherent overview of the basic technological options for renewable micro-CHP with biofuels and will provide an insight to the market trends within Europe and projected future market scenarios, taking into account cost estimations for various micro-CHP technologies, feedstocks, and electricity and fuel prices in Europe.