Real-time performance monitoring and optimisation of CHP

Operators of combined heat and power and utilities plant are under increasing pressure to increase profits (or contain costs) against a background of increasing commercial complexity and HSE considerations. Most operators are concerned and affected by one or more of the following factors: electricity pool prices; changes in the gas market; NO_x, SO_x and CO_x emissions; and availability and security of supply (electricity and heat). It is not surprising therefore that many are considering and indeed implementing two key technologies, performance monitoring and real-time optimisation. This paper looks at the potential applications of the technology, gives examples of applications in CHP/power generation plants and indicates the scale of the potential benefits, in terms of reduction in energy usage, or increased revenue and profit