Combined Heat & Power's Role in Modern Grid System
The 21st century needs a modern grid to meet increasingly higher standards in grid efficiency, reliability, security, power quality and environmental impact. Conventional coal-fired power plants, as the major electricity power house, are being phased out due to more stringent environmental regulations. However the electricity demand still persists. Combined heat and power (CHP) as a decentralized power generation system can support the transition and formation of the modern grid because of its high efficiency, enhanced system resiliency, improved power quality, reduced cost and carbon emissions, and its fast response complimentary to intermittent renewable energy. A case study was incorporated to demonstrate CHP's indispensable role in a modern grid configuration.