This online engineering PDH course provides practical information on developing a combined heat and power (CHP) system that would enable a building to operate independently of the electricity grid, in the event of a major storm or other disruption. During and after Hurricane Sandy, combined heat and power enabled a number of critical infrastructure and other facilities to continue their operations when the electric grid went down.

Time and again, CHP has proved its value as an alternative source of power and thermal energy (heating and cooling) during emergencies, and demonstrated how it can be a sound choice in making energy infrastructure more resilient in the face of extreme weather events. This course details what factors must be considered when configuring a CHP system to operate independently of the electricity grid, and what steps are involved in a typical CHP project development process. 

Topics: • Policy context for CHP • CHP in State and local resiliency planning efforts • CHP basics and benefits • Opportunities for CHP to contribute to reliability • Determining whether CHP is an appropriate choice • Steps in the CHP project development process • Options for financing CHP Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil, electrical, mechanical engineers, and planners for emergency events affecting cities. 

Publication Source: This course is based on the document, “Guide to Using Combined Heat and Power for Enhancing Reliability and Resiliency in Buildings,” developed jointly by the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, September, 2013.