Micro-CHP technologies could help the EU to meet energy, climate and competitiveness objectives if the right policy framework were put in place, Cogen Europe has said.
The association has launched a new study into micro-CHP technologies at its annual conference and that shows that they could cut household energy bills, reduce emissions and deliver primary energy savings.
It says that micro-CHP can empower consumers to produce their own energy while offering benefits for wider society in terms of electricity grid stability and integration of renewables.
The study, carried out by Delta-ee, shows that installing a micro-CHP in an average German family home could cut the household’s energy bills by more than 25 per cent and reduce its carbon footprint by up to two tonnes of CO₂ per year.
"Micro-CHP is a promising technology for the European residential and commercial heating markets," said Scott Dwyer, Principal Analyst at Delta-ee. "However, smart policy frameworks will still be needed for these types of technology that reward their ability to improve energy efficiency and to provide carbon reductions, and that offer greater flexibility to those trying to balance the electricity grid."
