A LoadTracker modulating combined heat and power (CHP) unit from SAV Systems is helping to minimise environmental impact and reduce running costs for the new Brookside Extra Care Scheme in Ormskirk, Lancashire. The system was specifi ed by consulting engineers Hannan Associates and installed by Technic Mechanical Services.

In the 12 months from August 2012 to July 2013 the 15kWe/30kWth LoadTracker unit has produced over 118,000 kWh of electrical power and over 229,000 kWh of heat. Compared to a traditional boiler/mains electricity arrangement, use of CHP has reduced energy bills by around £8,500 per annum. Annual carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced by over 32 tonnes.

In contrast to traditional fixed-output CHP unit, the LoadTracker unit monitors the site’s electrical consumption and modulates to match the demand. This maximises the run-time of the CHP and minimises the use of expensive mains electricity and back-up boilers.

The 7 Series indirect FlatStations in each apartment supply both space heating and instantaneous hot water. Each FlatStation uses a differential pressure control valve to ensure that differential pressure remains at around 35kPa in every unit, irrespective of location within the distribution system. The result is that DHW temperature is controlled to within +/- 2.5°C.

The high level of efficiency delivered by the FlatStations also helps to reduce the primary return temperature, resulting in improved CHP performance. This is achieved through efficient heat transfer across the plate heat exchangers, combined with differential pressure control valves and thermostatic valves that take account of variations in pressure and temperature.

In addition, an integral idle temperature controller in the control valve will ensure that water in the supply pipe remains warm. This enables the DHW to be highly responsive – even at times when space heating loads are low.