Photo Credit: Courtesy ECR International
If enough builders take the bait, one of the next product categories to come under federal Energy Star scrutiny might be micro-combined heating and power-(micro-CHP) equipment, efficient heating units that also generate electricity to further offset energy use and costs. Also known as cogeneration and sized for single-family applications, the technology headlines the EPA’s new Climate Choice program, an effort to inspire builders to incorporate emerging energy-saving products and practices into new homes to test their performance and market viability. The results may lead Energy Star to establish standards for micro-CHP systems to qualify under the program.
Micro-CHP equipment (pictured) recycles heat from its combustion process and uses it to provide a consistent and comfortable indoor climate. At the same time, the energy generated by the process is converted into electricity to supplement grid-provided power and/or earn energy credits from the utility.
Phase change is another new technology making waves, specifically a bio-based product called Pure Temp from Entropy Solutions that serves as a thermal mass—absorbing and releasing outdoor heat energy—to help regulate indoor temperatures and lessen HVAC loads.
Phase Change Energy Solutions has applied the technology to a supplemental insulation barrier called BioPCM.
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