4 E analysis of DG set based micro combined heat and power (CHP) system and its employment for shelter heating in high altitude areas

Abstract

Modern spectrum of combat and warfare calls for increased flexibility in operations of military bases through sustainable and adaptable designs churned out of various technological advancements. Micro CHP system is a niche technology which can be employed to reduce usage of fossil fuel for space heating in military bases and forward areas. Micro CHP systems improve energy efficiency, reduce CO2 emissions, and help to reduce cost of fuel burnt for space heating thereby reducing burden on huge logistic supply chain employed for maintenance of forward logistic bases and isolated posts. Considering their huge cumulative contribution in energy conservation and environment protection such systems have immense potential to be used not only in defence but across the nation in energy sector to help us achieve, goal of “ATMA-NIRBHAR BHAARAT” simultaneously ensuring achievement of national Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).This paper highlights results of theoretical and experimental analysis carried out on DG set based Micro-CHP system at College of Military Engineering, Pune. It covers Energy, Exergy, Environment and Economic analysis of the system when employed for space heating of military shelters. It includes discussion on design of radiant heating system for military shelters using waste heat energy produced from DG set based Micro-CHP system in high altitude areas. 4E analysis reveals that efficiency of 62.5 kVA DG set is 31 % which after retro-modification into Micro-CHP system increases to 45 %. Exergy efficiency of DG set is 29.9 % which after retro-modification into micro-CHP system increases to 38.9 %. Employment of DG set post retro-modification into micro-CHP system for space heating results in 24 % reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and will lead to savings to the tune of INR 5.6 lacs annually on account of cost of fuel consumed in Bukharies/Kero-heaters used in high altitude areas for heating of military shelters.