ecopower™ microCHP Cogen Configuration Options
Cogeneration installations are configured depending upon specific needs. Please move your mouse pointer over the buttons below for a description of the components used in different applications.
Component Descriptions
ecopower™ Our microCHP system. The ecopower™ produces both heat and electricity. NOTE: The standard ecopower™ is a grid connected device. In other words, it is designed to complement and replace grid power, as well as provide heat, and not function as a back-up power supply. Select the Cogeneration Tab for detailed information on the ecopower™.
Parallel Operation The ecopower™ can be configured with multiple units linked in a single installation, increasing the electrical and heat output. For instance, two units running in parallel mode provide up to 9.4 kW of electrical power at 230 VAC and up to 25 kW (85,000 BTU / hour) heat. Parallel Operation is currently available and shipping.
Buffer Tank A hot water storage device that is the interface between the ecopower™ and the heating system in the building. The temperature in the Buffer Tank is controlled by ecopower™ based on programmed conditions set by the owner. This tank is purchased separately and sized for the application and can be one tank or multiple tanks, depending upon need.
ecoisland The grid independent version of the ecopower™. The standard ecopower™ can be made a back up power supply with certain components. Currently, available in Europe only from partner PowerPlus Technologies (Vaillant).
Pump Package This is a pump and mixing valve that is included with the ecopower™. These components are critical to the operation of the system as they control the flow of cooling water to the heat exchanger in ecopower™ and modulate the engine temperature.
Radiator This device is a heat "dump" and utilized in the ecoisland system and offered as an option for ecopower™. The radiator expels heat from the buffer tank if the set temperature is exceeded. NOTE: This typically occurs if the ecopower™ is in the electrical generation mode and the generated heat cannot be expelled in the residence.
Transformer An isolation transformer used as a safety device to isolate the ecopower™ from direct contact to the grid. This is required by code and included in the purchase price of the ecopower™.
Battery Bank The battery supply for ecoisland. The batteries provide two functions: If the ecopower™ (backup version) is running and grid power is lost, the batteries provide immediate power to the residence. With ecoisland, these batteries provide power for low voltage situations so the unit doesn't have to run and therefore conserves fuel.
Inverter This converts DC power from the Battery Bank to AC power for the commercial facility or residence. In addition, this provides a battery management program that optimizes battery life through periodically equalizing charging cycles.
Load Manager This device controls the output of excess electricity to a resistance heater in the Buffer Tank in the ecoisland system. If there is more electricity generated than needed (and there is no grid to send it to) the electricity must be consumed and it is sent to the resistance heater.
Distribution Center / Transfer Switch This is the switch control box for the electric connections in ecoisland, and also functions as a transfer switch in the backup version of ecopower™.