Biomass-Fuelled Stirling Micro Combined Heat and Power Plants

Micro combined heat and power plants (muCHP) are a promising, innovative and commercial solution to produce both, heat and electric power in decentralised power plants. Using biomass as a fuel for these power plants confers advantages in terms of energy, and environmental, social and economic policies. This paper analyses biomass-fuelled Stirling combined heat and power plant systems with a focus on the critical factors for the connection to heating systems. Solutions for the connection to the electricity network are also detailed. A 'Delphi study' based upon a poll of experts is used to analyse the acceptance, constraints, and potentials of introducing these systems to the Austrian market. The results of the poll are used to calculate the estimated sales figures between 2005 and 2025.