Long operating time is a decisive factor when deciding on the efficiency of a cogeneration system. Ultimately, the longer the cogeneration system can transfer heat and energy to the system, the faster it will pay for itself.
When designing and planning a cogeneration plant, the primary focus is usually on heat. This is why we refer to a cogeneration plant as “heat-oriented.” There are a few exceptions, such as for emergency power supply, when a cogeneration plant is “power-oriented.”
When is a cogeneration system economical? The cogeneration planner calculates the profitability of cogeneration systems, including subsidies and maintenance contracts. To access the cogeneration planner, use your Viessmann portal login (trade partner login).
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If we consider how the annual heating capacity is typically distributed over 12 months (a constant annual line), it becomes clear that the cogeneration unit shouldn’t be oversized. Its heating capacity is calculated so that heat is transferred even at low loads. To achieve an operating time of at least 4,500 hours, we can use approximately 20 percent of the boiler capacity as the heating capacity of the CHP unit to provide building heating.
Since a cogeneration plant primarily pays for itself by reducing the amount of electricity consumed from the grid (rather than by charging a fee for supplying electricity), the building’s electricity consumption must also be taken into account.
By answering three simple questions, you can quickly check whether it makes sense to use a Vitobloc cogeneration unit:
If the answer to all these questions is “yes” and connection to a gas pipeline is possible, it’s worth taking a closer look at the feasibility of using a cogeneration unit. With additional information, Viessmann can prepare a feasibility study for the trading partner to assist the investor in making a decision, as well as offer technical consultations on system integration. Consultations on using a cogeneration unit as a generator or for generating electricity from biogas or landfill gas are available from Viessmann specialists.
