Research reveals CCHP benefits for hotels
Trigeneration technology (CHP with cooling) can be a viable option for hotels, according to research at the University of Strathclyde. An MSc group project by students in the department of engineering in association with independent hotel operators Chardon Trading involved a feasibility study for CCHP (combined cooling, heating and power) at the Holiday Inn Glasgow Theatreland hotel (pictured). The approach was then applied to the UK hospitality sector through the development of a bespoke desktop tool for hoteliers to model their own scenario.
The research found that biomass CCHP up to 200 kW can offer hoteliers a lucrative investment opportunity and that carbon reductions from using CCHP would enable hoteliers ot improve their green credentials.
Calum Craig, part of the university’s research team, says, ‘There is potential for significant financial reward for hoteliers willing to invest in this technology versus mainstream grid-based gas and electricity for space heating, hot water, electrical supply and light. Legislative drivers are encouraging investment in this area through incentives to use green energy and penalties for not recycling.’
Maurice Taylor, founder and chief executive at Chardon Trading, says, ‘This project represents a fine example of how academia and commerce can work together to create an innovative technological solution. We are delighted to have played a part in the development of this modelling tool, which we are deploying to evaluate the applicability of tri-gen throughout our portfolio of hotels.’
The modelling tool is available for free download from the Strathclyde University web site. (See link below.)
