Combined Heat & Power – CHP Calculator Tool
A Simple ROI Analysis Calculator for CHP Technology
This ROI calculator provides a simple payback calculation for various CHP technologies based on the size and energy rates. The calculations use average pricing, efficiencies, & maintenance costs provided in the CHP Technology Catalogs available from the Combined Heat and Power partnership of the EPA. This calculator also shows the carbon emissions reductions from a CHP system based off of eGRID data.
The results produced by use of this tool are intended solely as a preliminary evaluation of a potential CHP installation. For a more detailed and exact evaluation, you should seek the assistance of a qualified engineering firm with input from the appropriate manufacturers of power generation equipment.
Simple Payback Analysis Tool (Excel)
 |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHP Technology | Reciprocating Engine | Micro Turbine | Gas Turbine | Fuel Cell |
| Typical Size Range | 65 kW - 15 MW | 30 kW - 2000 kW | 1 MW - 50 MW | 200 - 2000 kW |
| Average Installed cost ($/kW) | $ 1,433 - $ 2,900 | $ 2,500 - $4,300 | $ 1,250 - $ 3,300 | $ 4,600 - $ 10,000 |
| Total Average CHP System Efficiency | 78.4% | 66.8% | 69% | 82% |
| O&M Cost ($/kWH) | $ 0.0177 | $ 0.013 | $ 0.0111 | $ 0.040 |
| Notes: | Less than a 65KW Engine is considered Micro-CHP | Can package multiple Micro turbines to reach 2 MW | Size starts at 1000KW | MCFC & PAFC |