This online engineering PDH course describes how local governments can use combined heat and power (CHP) systems in their facilities and throughout their communities. CHP, also known as cogeneration, refers to the simultaneous production of electricity and thermal energy from a single fuel source. Installing CHP systems can provide power and heat at less investment cost than the cost of building additional power plants. In addition, CHP systems provide other economic and environmental benefits, such as reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improving energy security. This course includes an overview of the benefits of CHP systems, costs, sources of funding, and case studies.

Topics: Reducing GHG emissions and other environmental impacts; Offsetting capital costs; Hedging against financial risks; Increasing electricity reliability; Applying CHP to wastewater treatment facilities; Applying CHP to landfill gas energy projects; Applying CHP to multi-family housing; Applying CHP to district energy systems; Case studies.

Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil, electrical, environmental, mechanical, and municipal engineers concerned with reducing the environmental impact of their local government through the introduction of sustainable technologies. 

Publication Source: This course is based on the Environmental Protection Agency document, “Combined Heat and Power, A Guide to Developing and Implementing Greenhouse Gas Reduction Programs,” 2014, from the EPA’s Local Government Climate and Energy Strategy Series.