Modelling the impact of micro-combined heat and power generators on electricity distribution networks

This paper investigates potential technical effects that a high take up of domestic micro-CHP could have on an electricity distribution system. This study is based on a combination of house-by-house energy use modelling and network power-flow analysis. A variety of micro-CHP technologies are represented, including Stirling engines, internal combustion engines, and fuel cells. These have different heat-to-power ratios and thus different impacts on the electricity system. The results and discussion focus on voltage rise, which is considered to be the primary constraint on allowable penetration.