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UK company Microgen Energy Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of BG Group and the Dutch Gas supplier Gasunie Trade & Supply, have installed the first compact wall hung micro combined heat and power (microCHP) appliance in The Netherlands. The prototype appliance, installed on Wednesday 19 October in Haren, Groningen will undergo field testing. This microCHP appliance, developed by Microgen, represents the new generation in home heating appliances. The appliance incorporates the latest condensing boiler technology and a fully integrated Stirling generator. In testing by Gasunie, the Microgen appliance has demonstrated class leading performance. The microCHP system generates heat at the same efficiency level as a High Efficiency (Condensing) Boiler and uses energy much more efficiently than traditional centralised power generation. Moreover with the electricity generated at the property itself, Gasunie estimates that CO2 emissions can be reduced by more than 60% compared to traditional centralised power generation. Amid growing concerns over the environment, climate change and the high energy prices, there is heightened interest in energy efficient CHP technology. Microgen is working with leading European manufacturers and technology providers to develop a broad range of microCHP units tailored to specific countries and end users. The appliance installed in Groningen is Microgen’s latest prototype and, in conjunction with Gasunie Engineering & Technology, will be further developed and optimised into a combination-type microCHP appliance suitable for the Dutch market. Significant field trials are planned from spring 2006 in cooperation with Dutch partners and utilities. Candidates for this trial are already selected. The appliance is scheduled for commercial launch in 2007. For more information contact: Suzanna Hammond |
