Battery storage and testing protocols for CHP systems

As the movement towards Distributed Generation and environmental aware power generation increases, decentralized power generation in the form of renewable technologies and Combined Heat and Power (CHP) generation is increasing. The optimal way of integrating these systems with existing systems is a matter of much speculation and research. This paper serves to review the possibilities of integration of energy storage into CHP systems and the integration of CHP systems into existing infrastructure. A variety of energy storage techniques will be reviewed with a specific emphasis on batteries and specific types of batteries for the electrical energy storage component of CHP systems. To ensure the effectiveness of batteries in CHP systems, the batteries need to be tested and assessed for acceptability and capacity. This paper looks at the various recommended methods of testing and maintaining batteries. Batteries and CHP within a South African context is outlined and the possibility for further implementation is discussed.