Disenco and Sentec design next generation of CHP

06/08/08

Cambridge clean energy company Sentec is helping build the future of domestic energy for clients Disenco, by developing the controls for Disenco’s new micro combined heat and power generator.

A combined heat and power (CHP) generator is a replacement for a domestic boiler which uses the waste heat every boiler produces to make electricity. Disenco’s latest model is based on a Stirling engine and is extremely efficient: the company estimates it will produce 50% of the electricity needs of an average household, in addition to all the hot water and heating needs. Because gas is a much cleaner fuel than coal (still used for much electricity generation) and because the energy is produced locally, so is not reduced by transmission losses on the way to the home, micro CHP has the capacity to substantially reduce a home’s carbon footprint – in some cases by up to two thirds.

Sentec is developing the control electronics and grid interface for Disenco’s prototype combined heat and power units. These vital systems will control the water temperature, the engine, the burner and the electrical power output, as well as providing a simple user interface where customers can set start and stop times, space and water heating requirements.

lan Dale, Operations Director at Disenco, said: ‘With Sentec’s new design for CHP control and grid interface, Disenco will maximise the efficiency of the Stirling engine and pave the way for domestic generation to play a much more significant role in meeting the UK’s power requirements. The saving of energy costs, particularly electricity, is a key concern for governments, utilities and homeowners and these new control electronics will mean Disenco’s mCHP will lead the market in providing onsite energy efficiency.’

Mark England, Sentec’s MD, said: ‘Allowing households to generate their own power is an exciting solution to many current concerns about energy and energy efficiency which requires sophisticated controls and a rethink of existing grid infrastructure. Disenco’s solution offers households the opportunity to slash their carbon footprint and their energy bills, and Sentec is delighted to be involved in such an exciting project.’

Sentec has acquired a strong track record in technologies for controlling energy production and consumption: the company is best known for its work with smart metering technologies, but other projects have included new sensors to improve energy efficiency in refrigeration, controlling photovoltaic (solar) installations and systems for controlling domestic appliances to respond to conditions in the electrical grid.

Established in 1997, the Cambridge based company is a developer of a wide range of smart metering and grid control technologies and a recognised authority on design for energy management and smart grids.

Further information: Hermione Crease, +44(1223)303800, press@sentec.co.uk