Environmental Technologies Awareness Course July 2015 Welcome and - - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Environmental Technologies Awareness Course

July 2015

Welcome and Introduction The aim of the course is to :

• develop your understanding of the fundamental working principles
• f micro-renewable energy and water conservation technologies
• enable you to recognise the top level regulatory requirements that

apply in relation to micro-renewable energy and water conservation technologies installation

• enable you to recognise the fundamental requirements of building

location/building features for the potential to install micro- renewable energy and water conservation systems to exist.

• enable you recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages of

micro-renewable energy and water conservation systems

Welcome and Introduction When is it appropriate to install environmental technology systems?

1 2 3

Welcome and Introduction The course covers the following technologies: Solar Thermal Hot Water Micro-Combined Heat and Power Solar Photovoltaic Heat Pumps Micro Wind-power Rainwater Harvesting Biomass Micro Hydro-power Greywater Reuse

An Introduction to Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems: Objectives At the end of this session you will:

• understand the fundamental working principles of solar thermal hot

water systems

• recognise the top level regulatory requirements that apply in

relation to solar thermal hot water systems installation work

• recognise the fundamental requirements of building location and

building features for the potential to install to a solar thermal hot water system to exist

• recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages of solar thermal

hot water systems



Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – Basic System Categories

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems - Indirect Active System

Heat Producing Technologies

Please note that due to the awareness only nature of this course , some system components are not shown. This is not an installation diagram.

System Components: Solar Collector Sometimes referred to as a solar panel, the collector is mounted in a suitable location (usually on a roof). The collector absorbs the sun's energy and uses it to heat the heat transfer fluid within the system. ‘Flat Plate’ Solar Collectors ‘Evacuated Tube’ Solar Collectors

Heat Producing Technologies

System Components: Solar Collector

Heat Producing Technologies

Example Glazed Flat Plate Solar Collector

System Components: Solar Collector

Heat Producing Technologies

Example Heat Pipe Evacuated Tube Collector

System Components: - Differential Temperature Controller The Differential Temperature Controller (DTC) is the heart and brains of the

• system. Linked to high level and low

level temperature sensors the DTC only allows the system circulating pump to

• perate when there is:
• 1. solar energy available
• 2. there is a demand for water to be

heated

Heat Producing Technologies

System Components: Circulating Pump The circulating pump circulates the system heat transfer fluid which is either water or glycol depending upon the type of system, around the solar hot water circuit. The operation of the circulating pump is controlled by the Differential Temperature Controller

Heat Producing Technologies

Where a space heating system is installed, the boiler typically provides the back-up heat source for the solar hot water system. Where there is no space heating the back-up heat source is typically an electric immersion heater System Components: Back-up Heat Source In the UK, solar thermal hot water systems require a back-up heat source to heat the stored domestic hot water when there is either:

• 1. insufficient solar energy to heat the

water fully; or

• 2. no solar energy to heat the water

Heat Producing Technologies

System Components: Storage Cylinder The storage cylinder stores the domestic hot water and allows for the heat transfer from the solar collector circuit to the stored domestic hot water. A popular cylinder type is the twin coil cylinder. This type of cylinder incorporates a lower solar heating coil and a higher back-up heating coil. Some cylinders will also include a shunt pump to circulate the stored water in the cylinder when just the back-up heat coil is in operation

Heat Producing Technologies

System Components: Storage Cylinder One of a number of alternative storage arrangements is to use a separate solar pre-heat cylinder as shown below. This arrangement is less common.

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – Direct Active Systems An alternative to an indirect system is the direct solar hot water system. In this type of system, the domestic hot water that is stored in the cylinder is directly circulated through the solar collector.

Please note that due to the

awareness only nature of this course , some system components are not shown. This is not an installation diagram.

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems: Learning Check 1

• Q1. Most solar hot water systems in the UK fall into which system type

category?

• Q2. What types of solar collector are available?
• Q3. What is the function of the Differential Temperature Controller?
• Q4. What is the purpose of an back-up heat source?

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – Regulatory Requirements The installation of a solar thermal hot water system will require compliance with

• Building Regulations
• Town and Country Planning Regulations

A number of other regulatory requirements including health and safety, water regulations, electrical regulations will also apply.

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance A Structure Where solar collectors and other components put load on the structure, in particular wind uplift loads. B Fire Safety Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the fire resistant integrity of the building structure C Site preparation and resistance to moisture Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the moisture resistant integrity of the building structure

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – Regulatory Requirements Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance E Resistance to the passage of sound Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce sound proof integrity of the building structure G Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency Hot water safety and water efficiency L Conservation of fuel and power Energy efficiency of the system and the building P Electrical safety in dwellings Safe installation of electrical controls and components

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations – Building Mounted Collectors The installation of a solar hot water system collector array is typically classed as permitted development for houses and bungalows providing :

• the solar collectors are not installed above the ridgeline and do not

project more than 200mm from the roof or wall surface.

• the solar collectors are sited, so far as is practicable, to minimise the

effect on the appearance of the building

• the solar collectors are sited, so far as is practicable, to minimise the

effect on the amenity of the area.

• the property is not a listed building*
• the property is not in a conservation area or in a World Heritage Site

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations – Stand-alone Collector Arrays The installation of a stand-alone solar hot water system collector arrays is typically classed as permitted development providing :

• The array is no higher than four metres
• The array is sited at least 5m from boundaries
• The size of array is limited to 9m2 or 3m wide and 3m deep
• The array is not being installed within boundary of a listed building
• In the case of land in a conservation area or in a World Heritage Site

the array will not be visible from the highway.

• Only one stand-alone solar installation is being installed.

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems - Building location and feature requirements

For the potential to install to a solar thermal hot water system to

exist, as a minimum some or all of the following building and location factors will need to be considered:

• orientation of the solar collectors
• tilt of the solar collectors
• adjacent structures or obstructions that introduce overshading
• the availability of a suitable solar collector mounting structure
• compatibility with any existing hot water system

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – building location and feature requirements Collector Orientation

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Collector Tilt Optimum tilt = 35o

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – building location and feature requirements

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – building location and feature requirements Any overshading of the solar collector(s) will have an impact on how much available solar energy that is transferred from the sun to the solar hot water system. The degree of overshading may vary from season to season due to the varying height of the sun in the sky, and where the overshading is caused by a deciduous tree. Overshading

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – building location and feature requirements Overshading % of sky blocked by obstacles Impact of overshading (% reduction in potential system performance) Heavy ˃ 80% 50% Significant ˃ 60 - 80% 35% Modest 20% - 60% 20% None or very little ˂ 20% none

Based upon Table H4, SAP, 2009

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – building location and feature requirements The collector mounting structure must be suitable in terms of being:

• f sufficient size (m2)

− typically a minimum of 3- 4m2 of suitable collector mounting area is needed with approximately 1m2 to 1.25m2 of collector area being required per person

• strong enough to support the collectors

− as well as considering the the potential for collapse or damage to the structure under normal conditions, wind uplift loads must be considered and assessed.

• in good condition

− there is no sense in installing a solar collector to a roof that is in a poor state of repair. Any repairs or refurbishment should be carried out prior to installing the solar collector(s) Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – building location and feature requirements Compatibility with any Existing Hot Water System Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems: Learning Check 2

• Q1. What type of solar hot water system is typically suitable for a

property with and East/West roof orientation?

• Q2. What effect will heavy overshading of solar collectors have on

system performance? Q.3 What are the essential requirements for a structure to be suitable for the mounting solar collectors?

• Q4. Which type of hot water system is most compatible with a solar

hot water system?

Heat Producing Technologies

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems – Advantages and Disadvantages Some example advantages and disadvantages are: Advantages Disadvantages Reduces carbon dioxide emissions Not compatible will all existing hot water systems Solar energy is free, energy costs will be reduced Less solar energy is available in the winter months Relatively low maintenance is needed Initial installation costs can be

• ff-putting

Improves Energy Performance Certificate ratings Needs a back-up heat source

Heat Producing Technologies

An Introduction to Heat Pump Systems

At the end of this session you will:

• understand the fundamental working principles of a heat pump unit
• know the common types of heat pump unit
• know the types of heat emitters that are suitable for heat pump

system installations

• recognise the top level regulatory requirements that apply in

relation to heat pump systems installation work

• recognise the fundamental requirements of building location and

building features for the potential to install heat pump systems to exist

• recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages of heat pump

systems



Heat Pump Systems: Objectives

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems: What is a heat pump? A heat pump is a device for converting low temperature heat a to higher temperature heat Some heat pumps can also work in reverse and convert high temperature heat to a lower temperature

Heat Producing Technologies

Most heat pumps make use of the mechanical vapour compression cycle commonly known as the refrigeration cycle to convert heat form

• ne temperature to another.

The heat pump refrigeration cycle works on a similar principle to a domestic refrigerator but in reverse. Heat Pump Systems: How does a heat pump work?

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems: The Heat pump refrigeration cycle

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems: How efficient are heat pumps? Depending on the application,

• perating conditions and type of heat

pump utilised, heat pump energy

• utput can be 300% to 500% more

than the electrical energy input. Heat Pump efficiency is referred to as Coefficient of Performance (COP) In its simplest form COP relates to heating output divided by the electrical power input. For this example the COP is 4.0, calculated as follows: Heating output (4kW) ÷ Electrical power input (1kW) = 4.0

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems

Heat Producing Technologies

External Air Source Heat Pump System Options

Heat Producing Technologies

Ground Source Heat Pump System Options

Heat Producing Technologies

Ground Source Heat Pump System Options

Heat Producing Technologies

Ground Source Heat Pump System Options

Heat Producing Technologies

Ground Source Heat Pump System Options

Heat Producing Technologies

Water Source Heat Pump System Options

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems: Learning Check 1

• Q1. What type of heat conversion process does a heat pump use?
• Q2. What types of heat source options exist?
• Q3. What types of heat sink circuit exist?
• Q4. What is the typical % increase in energy output from a heat

pump in relation to the electrical energy input?

• Q5. What does Coefficient of Performance relate to?

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump System Piped Water ‘Heat Sink’ (Emitter) Circuits

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat sink circuit mean water temperature (MWT) considerations

Domestic Hot Water Storage The ‘tank-in-tank’ design provides a large surface to surface contact between the heating circuit water and the stored domestic hot water. This design is very suitable due to the lower temperature of the heating circuit water in a heat pump system when compared to a traditional boiler-fed heating system. Heat Pump System Piped Water ‘Heat Sink’ (Emitter) Circuit Options

‘Tank-in-Tank’ Hot Water Cylinder Heat Producing Technologies

Underfloor Heating Underfloor heating systems operate at a lower mean (average) water temperature than a heating system with radiators. Therefore, underfloor heating is very suitable for use with heat pumps. Heat Pump System Piped Water ‘Heat Sink’ (Emitter) Circuit Options

Heat Producing Technologies

Panel Radiators Standard type panel radiators are designed to work at a mean (average) water temperature of approximately 70oC. A heat pump system mean water temperature will typically be between 30oC and 40oC Heat Pump System Piped Water ‘Heat Sink’ (Emitter) Circuit Options

Heat Producing Technologies

Convector Heaters Natural and fanned convector heaters are suitable for use with heat pumps. As is the case with low temperature, high efficiency panel radiators, where natural and/or fanned convector heaters used, the Coefficient of Performance will typically be lower than if underfloor heating is used.

Heat Pump System Piped Water ‘Heat Sink’ (Emitter) Circuit Options

Example Fanned Convector Heater

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump System Piped Water ‘Heat Sink’ (Emitter) Circuits Buffer Tanks Some heat sink circuits make use of a component called a buffer

• tank. In basic terms, a buffer tank is a vessel that accumulates and

stores heating circuit water ready for use when needed.

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems – Regulatory Requirements

The installation of a of heat pump system will require compliance with

• Building Regulations
• Town and Country Planning Regulations

A number of other regulatory requirements including health and safety, water regulations, electrical regulations will also apply.

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance A Structure Where heat pumps and other components put load on the structure B Fire Safety Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the fire resistant integrity

• f the building structure

C Site preparation and resistance to moisture Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the moisture resistant integrity of the building structure

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems – Regulatory Requirements Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance E Resistance to the passage

• f sound

Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce sound proof integrity of the building structure G Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency Hot water safety and water efficiency L Conservation of fuel and power Energy efficiency of the system and the building P Electrical safety in dwellings Safe installation of electrical controls and components

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations Installing a ground source or water source heat pump system does not usually need planning permission and should fall within permitted development rights. Due to potential noise issues, most air source heat pump installation currently require planning permission. However, this is currently being reviewed and as soon as relevant standards and safeguards to deal with noise have been established air source heat pumps are likely to be classified as permitted development.

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems - Building location and feature requirements For the potential to install to a heat pump system to exist, as a minimum some or all of the following building and location factors will need to be considered:

• an appropriate heat source (air, ground or water)
• the availability of a suitable location to mount the

components - particularly the potential for noise issues if an air source heat pump is being considered

• The compatibility of the proposed installation with any

existing heating and hot water system unless a new heating and hot water system is to be installed

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems: Learning Check 2

• Q1. What is the mean water temperature used in a heating system connected to a

heat pump?

• Q2. What type of domestic hot water cylinder is most suitable for use in a heat

pump system?

• Q3. What component can be used to prevent the heat pump cycling on and off

during short-term heat demand periods?

• Q4. Which type of heat pump installation is most likely to require planning

permission?

Heat Producing Technologies

Heat Pump Systems – Advantages and Disadvantages

Some example advantages and disadvantages are:

Advantages Disadvantages Reduces carbon dioxide emissions Not usually suitable for connection to existing heating systems using panel radiators Efficiencies between 300% to 500% are typical. Initial installation costs can be

• ff-putting

Relatively low maintenance is needed Air source installations can present a noise issue Improves Energy Performance Certificate ratings Ground source installations require a large ground area or a borehole

Heat Producing Technologies

An Introduction to Biomass Fuelled Systems

Biomass Fuelled Systems: Objectives At the end of this session you will:

• understand the fundamental working principles of biomass fuelled

systems

• recognise the top level regulatory requirements that apply in

relation to biomass fuelled systems installation work

• recognise the fundamental requirements of building location and

building features for the potential to install to a biomass fuelled system to exist

• recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages of biomass

fuelled systems



Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems: The Biomass Resource



Heat Producing Technologies

Logs Logs have been used to provide heating for hundreds of years and is the original biomass

• fuel. Logs for biomass appliances need to be
• f maximum length and diameter

Wood Chip Wood Chip is typically produced from the ‘small round-wood’ that is left over when trees are felled and logs are harvested but can also be produced from reclaimed timber Pellets Wood pellets are pellets made from fine wood particles such as sawdust. They are cylindrical in shape, typically 6 or 8mm wide (diameter), and 15-30mm long. Biomass Fuelled Systems: Woody Biomass fuels



Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems: Biomass Appliances



Biomass Stove Biomass Boiler

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems: Biomass stove fuel options



Pellet burning biomass stoves and log burning biomass stoves are

• available. The typical heat capacity range for biomass stoves is 5- 15kW

but some stoves can be regulated to outputs as low as 2kW

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems: Biomass stove fuel options



Heat Producing Technologies

Pellet burning biomass stoves include an integrated hopper and an auger feed mechanism that transfers the pellets from the hopper to the burner when heat is needed. Log burning stoves require manual loading

Biomass Fuelled Systems : Biomass stoves output options



Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems: Biomass boiler fuel options



Biomass boilers are available for all three main type of biomass fuel. Some biomass boilers are multi-fuel boilers. Pellet burning boilers and wood chip boilers will include some type of automated feed arrangement to transfer the fuel to the burner. In many cases and automated feed arrangement is also used to transfer the fuel from the store to the

• appliance. Log burning boilers require

manual loading.

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems: Biomass boiler output options



Biomass boilers can provide heat for domestic hot water and space heating purposes. The typical minimum heat output rating for biomass boilers is 8kW for pellet boilers, 12kw for log boilers and 25kW for wood chip

• boilers. Biomass boilers are typically

more suited to larger domestic properties, non-domestic applications and communal heating schemes.

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuel Storage and Transfer For smaller installations, biomass pellets are available in sealed bags that can be carried and loaded directly into the appliance. For larger installations with automated fuel transfer, the fuels can either be stored in the existing building in a room near the boiler, or in a separate store outside the building. External storage options include an underground store or over ground silo from where the fuel is fed to the boiler by auger or suction. In underground stores for pellets, it is important to ensure that no moisture can get in. Stores for chips should be well ventilated to let the wood dry and prevent mould. The size of the fuel store depends on many factors: anticipated fuel requirements, fuel type, reliability of deliveries, space available, delivery vehicle capacity etc.

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuel Storage and Transfer

Heat Producing Technologies

Example biomass boiler with attached external fuel hopper

Biomass-fuelled Systems – Example fuel transfer arrangements

Heat Producing Technologies

Example pellet silo providing bulk storage with overhead supply to boiler hopper

Biomass-fuelled Systems – Example fuel transfer arrangements

Heat Producing Technologies

Example bulk storage with auger feed direct to boiler

Biomass Fuelled Systems: Learning Check 1

• Q1. Why is biomass considered to a carbon neutral fuel?
• Q2. As well as logs and pellets, what other type of biomass fuel

is available?

• Q3. What type of biomass appliance is typically the best type

for a small property?

• Q4. What type of biomass fuel is suitable for storage in a

circular underground storage tank?

Heat Producing Technologies

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance A Structure Where the biomass appliance and other components put load on the structure B Fire Safety Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the fire resistant integrity of the building structure C Site preparation and resistance to moisture Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the moisture resistant integrity of the building structure E Resistance to the passage of sound Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce sound proof integrity of the building structure

Biomass Fuelled Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Heat Producing Technologies

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance G Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency Hot water safety and water efficiency J Combustion appliances and Fuel Storage system Biomass appliances are a heat- producing combustion appliances and must be installed safely L Conservation of fuel and power Energy efficiency of the system and the building P Electrical safety in dwellings Safe installation of electrical controls and components Biomass Fuelled Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations Planning permission is not normally needed when installing a biomass fuelled system in a house if the work is all internal. If the installation requires a flue outside, however, it will normally be permitted development if:

• Flues on the rear or side elevation of the building project to a

maximum of one metre above the highest part of the roof. If the building is listed or in a designated area even if the building has permitted development rights it is advisable to check with the local planning authority before a flue is fitted. Consent is also likely to be needed for internal alterations.

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations In a conservation area or in a World Heritage site the flue should not be fitted on the principal or side elevation if it would be visible from a highway. If the project also requires an outside building to store fuel or related equipment the same rules apply to that building as for other extensions and garden outbuildings.

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems – Regulatory Requirements

The Clean Air Act and Smoke Control Areas Heat Producing Technologies

Under the Clean Air Act, local authorities may declare the whole or part of the district of the authority to be a smoke control area. It is an offence to emit smoke from a chimney of a building, from a furnace or from any fixed boiler if located in a designated smoke control area unless it is an exempted appliance using an authorised fuel. The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has powers under the Act to authorise smokeless fuels or exempt appliances for use in smoke control areas in England. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) provides information regarding exempted appliances and exempted fuels. Local authorities are responsible for enforcing the legislation in smoke control areas and the local authority should be contacted for details of any smoke control areas in their area. The local authority may also be able to provide information regarding exempted appliances and exempted fuels.

Biomass Fuelled Systems - Building location and feature requirements For the potential to install to a biomass fuelled system to exist, as a minimum some or all of the following building and location factors will need to be considered:

• A suitable flue or chimney system or the potential to install a

suitable flue or chimney system. The flue system must be constructed of, or lined with a material that is a suitable to receive the products of combustion from a biomass appliance. Prefabricated gas appliance flue systems are not suitable for biomass appliances. The flue must also be fitted with and appropriate terminal to disperse the products of combustion.

• A suitable location and arrangement for fuel storage. Factors such a

space, moisture, access for fuel deliveries and the frequency of fuel deliveries must be considered.

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems: Learning Check 2

• Q1. Is the installation of a biomass stove in a house classified as

permitted development under the Town and Country Planning Regulations?

• Q2. What is an ‘exempted appliance’?
• Q3. What does DEFRA stand for?

Heat Producing Technologies

Biomass Fuelled Systems – Advantages and Disadvantages Some example advantages and disadvantages are: Advantages Disadvantages Biomass is a carbon neutral technology Requires a suitable flue/chimney system Does not rely on building

• rientation or weather conditions

to operate effectively Initial installation costs can be off- putting Biomass is generally considered to be an inexhaustible fuel source Typically require a large space to store fuel Producing biomass fuel is very cheap compared to the cost of finding and extracting fossil fuels Sometimes considered less suitable for smaller properties

Heat Producing Technologies

An Introduction to Solar Photovoltaic Systems

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems: Objectives At the end of this session you will:

• understand the fundamental working principles of solar

photovoltaic systems

• recognise the top level regulatory requirements that apply in

relation to solar photovoltaic systems installation work

• recognise the fundamental requirements of building location and

building features for the potential to install to a solar photovoltaic system to exist

• recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages of solar

photovoltaic systems



Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Introduction

Electricity Producing Technologies

In basic terms a solar photovoltaic system is a system that uses solar cells to convert light energy from the sun into electricity. Solar cells are semiconductors -typically silicon. A group of solar cells it needed to generate a usable amount of electricity. A group of solar cells is known as a solar photovoltaic module. Solar photovoltaic electricity is a zero carbon technology.

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Basic System Categories Although there are a number of system types, variations and configurations, solar photovoltaic systems fall into two basic system categories: ‘on-grid’ systems ‘off-grid’ systems

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Direct Current and Alternating Current

Some electrical appliances operate using direct current electricity, but the most common type of electricity used in our homes and places of work

• etc. is alternating current.

Before direct current (d.c) electricity that is generated by a solar photovoltaic system can be used with alternating current (a.c.) systems and appliances, the electricity has to be converted from d.c. to a.c. electricity. It is only possible to export alternating current (a.c.) electricity to the electricity distribution grid. Therefore on-grid a.c. solar photovoltaic systems are the most popular an common type of system. Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems - Example ‘on-grid’ system layout

Please note that due to the awareness only nature of this course , some system components are not shown. This is not an installation diagram.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic System Components - Solar Photovoltaic Module Sometimes referred to as a solar photovoltaic panel, solar photovoltaic modules are mounted in a suitable location - often on a building - where they will receive the maximum amount of solar energy. A group of solar photovoltaic modules is known as an solar photovoltaic array. A range of different solar photovoltaic modules (monocrystaline, polycrystaline, thin-film etc.) are available, each type having different levels of efficiency.

Module Solar photovoltaic array Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic System Components - Inverter The inverter is the system component that converts the direct current (d.c.) to alternating current (a.c). Depending upon the photovoltaic module layout and size, the d.c voltages that enter the inverter can be very high. The inverter can be mounted in the roof area adjacent to the PV module location or in the building.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic System Components – Consumer Unit The consumer unit or fuse board as it is sometimes referred to is used to as the connection point for the solar photovoltaic system installation. . Where the existing consumer unit is of a modern type, and has a spare connection circuit point available, it can often be

• utilized. Older type consumer units will

need to be replaced at the time that the solar photovoltaic system is installed.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic System Components – Generation Meter A generation meter is fitted to record how much solar generated electricity has been exported to the supply grid. Some energy supplier’s incoming supply (import) meter have the capability to perform this function but a generation meter is typically included as part of the solar photovoltaic installation. The generation meter must be of an approved type and located in a position where it is easily accessible for reading purposes.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems: Learning Check 1

• Q1. Where is a semiconductor material used in a solar

photovoltaic system?

• Q2. What is the most popular type of solar photovoltaic systems?
• Q3. What is a solar photovoltaic array?
• Q4. What is the function of a solar photovoltaic system inverter?

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Regulatory Requirements

The installation of a solar photovoltaic system will require

compliance with a number of regulatory requirements including health and safety, electrical regulations and regulations relating to the connection of ‘on-grid’ solar photovoltaic systems. Here we consider two primary regulatory requirements in relation to solar photovoltaic systems:

• Building Regulations
• Town and Country Planning Regulations

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance A Structure Where solar photovoltaic modules and other components put load on the structure, in particular wind uplift loads B Fire Safety Where holes for cables etc. may reduce the fire resistant integrity of the building structure C Site preparation and resistance to moisture Where holes for cables etc. may reduce the moisture resistant integrity of the building structure

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance E Resistance to the passage of sound Where holes for cables etc. may reduce sound proof integrity of the building structure P Electrical safety in dwellings Safe installation of electrical controls and components

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations – Building Mounted Arrays The installation of building mounted solar photovoltaic arrays is typically classed as permitted development providing :

• the solar modules are not installed above the ridgeline and do not

project more than 200mm from the roof or wall surface.

• the solar modules are sited, so far as is practicable, to minimise the

effect on the appearance of the building

• the solar modules are sited, so far as is practicable, to minimise the

effect on the amenity of the area.

• the property is not a listed building
• the property is not in a conservation area or in a World Heritage Site

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations – Stand-alone Arrays The installation of a stand-alone solar photovoltaic arrays is typically classed as permitted development providing :

• The array is no higher than four metres
• The array is sited at least 5m from boundaries
• The size of array is limited to 9m2 or 3m wide and 3m deep
• The array is not being installed within boundary of a listed

building

• In the case of land in a conservation area or in a World Heritage

Site the array will not be visible from the highway.

• Only one stand-alone solar installation is being installed.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems - Building location and feature requirements For the potential to install to a solar photovoltaic system to exist, as a minimum some or all of the following building and location factors will need to be considered:

• orientation of the solar photovoltaic array
• tilt solar photovoltaic array
• adjacent structures or obstructions that introduce overshading
• the availability of a suitable solar photovoltaic array mounting

structure

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – building location and feature requirements Orientation As with solar hot water system collectors , the ideal orientation to mount solar photovoltaic modules is south facing. Orientations between south east and south west will also provide good results.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – building location and feature requirements Solar Photovoltaic Array Tilt As well as orientation, the ‘tilt’ of the solar photovoltaic array is also key factor that determines the amount of solar energy that is harnessed from the sun and converted to electrical energy. ‘Tilt’ is the angle that the solar photovoltaic array is mounted from the horizontal plane. Typically, a tilt of between 30o and 40o from horizontal is considered to be close to optimum

Electricity Producing Technologies

Orientation East South West

• 90
• 75
• 60
• 45
• 30
• 15

15 30 45 60 75 90

Tilt from horizontal (o)

90 56 60 64 67 69 71 71 71 71 69 65 62 58 80 63 68 72 75 77 79 80 80 79 77 74 69 65 70 69 74 78 82 85 86 87 87 86 84 80 76 70 60 74 79 84 87 90 91 93 93 92 89 86 81 76 50 78 84 88 92 95 96 97 97 96 93 89 85 80 40 82 86 90 95 97 99 100 99 98 96 92 88 84 30 86 89 93 96 98 99 100 100 98 96 94 90 86 20 87 90 93 96 97 98 98 98 97 96 94 91 88 10 89 91 92 94 95 95 96 95 95 94 93 91 90 90 90 90 90 90 90 90 90 90 90 90 90 90

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – building location and feature requirements Optimum Orientation and Tilt

Solar sundial showing the likely yield (%) of optimum for different orientation and tilt arrangements Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – building location and feature requirements Overshading Any overshading of the solar photovoltaic array will have an impact on much solar energy is harnessed from the sun and converted to electrical energy. Heavy overshading will reduce the performance of the system by approximately 50% during peak

• irradiation. Modest overshading will

reduce performance by approximately 20%, Overshading can also lead to thermal stress in solar photovoltaic modules causing malfunctioning to occur, possibly leading to early component failure.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – building location and feature requirements Suitable Solar Photovoltaic Array Mounting Structure

The solar photovoltaic array mounting structure must be suitable in terms of being:

• of sufficient size (m2)

− the required area will vary according to the module efficiency. Typically a minimum of 8m2 of suitable array mounting area is needed for each 1000 watts of electricity generation under peak conditions (1 kWp or kilo-watt peak)

• strong enough to support the array

− factors such dead weight loads and wind uplift loads must be considered

• in good condition

− Any roof or structure repairs or refurbishment should be carried

• ut prior to installing the array

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems: Learning Check 2

• Q1. What is the optimum orientation for a solar photovoltaic array

in the UK?

• Q2. What is the optimum tilt angle for a solar photovoltaic array?
• Q3. What effect will overshading have on a solar photovoltaic

array?

• Q4. What are the essential requirements for a structure to be

suitable for the mounting of a solar photovoltaic array ?

Electricity Producing Technologies

Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Advantages and Disadvantages Some example advantages and disadvantages are: Advantages Disadvantages It is a zero carbon technology Requires a relatively large array area to make the installation worthwhile The technology qualifies for Feed-In Tariff payments Initial installation costs can be

• ff-putting

Most buildings are suitable for the technology Variable performance according to the availability of solar energy Improves Energy Performance Certificate ratings Some people consider that solar photovoltaic arrays reduce the appearance of the building

Electricity Producing Technologies

An Introduction to Micro-Wind Systems

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems: Objectives At the end of this session you will:

• understand the fundamental working principles of micro-

wind turbine systems

• recognise the top level regulatory requirements that apply in

relation to micro-wind turbine systems installation work

• recognise the fundamental requirements of building location

and building features for the potential to install to a micro- wind system to exist

• recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages of micro-

wind systems



Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Systems – Introduction Micro-wind systems make use of the natural wind resource to generate electrical energy A basic wind turbine operates on the principle that wind passing across the rotor blades of a turbine cause a ‘lift’ and ‘drag’ effect which in-turn causes the hub to turn. The hub is connected by a low- speed shaft to a gearbox which increases the speed of rotation of the shaft. The high-speed shaft is connected to a generator that produces electricity.

Basic horizontal axis wind turbine

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-wind Turbine Systems – Basic System Categories

‘on-grid’ ‘off-grid’ Electricity Producing Technologies

Although there are a number of system types, variations and configurations, micro-wind turbine systems fall into two basic system categories. ‘On-grid’ systems allow any surplus electricity that is generated to be exported to the electricity distribution

• grid. This type of system is included in

the Feed-in Tariff scheme ‘Off-grid’ systems use a battery bank arrangement to store the electrical power generated for use when needed.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems - Typical ‘on-grid’ mast mounted micro-wind turbine system

Please note that due to the intended purpose of this learning tool, some system components are not

• shown. This is not an installation diagram.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind System Components - Wind turbine

Example horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) and vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT)

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind System Components – Turbine mast

Wind turbines are mounted on poles or masts

(sometimes referred to as towers). A number of

• ptions are available including:
• Self-supporting masts
• Rigid masts supported by guy ropes
• Hinged masts supported by guy ropes
• Building mounted poles

Masts supported by guy ropes are typically cheaper to purchase than self-supporting masts; however, guyed masts require more space to accommodate the guy ropes. Hinged masts can be raised and lowered for easy maintenance and repair.

Micro -Wind Turbine Systems – ‘Wild Current’ Most micro and small scale wind turbines (less than 20 kilowatt (kW)) produce ‘wild’ (variable voltage and frequency) alternating current (AC) electricity which is rectified to direct current (DC) via a system controller. The DC is then either directly used to charge batteries (off-grid system) or is converted using an inverter to normal AC (240V 50Hz) for use with an ‘on-grid’ system.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems Learning Check 1

• Q1. What are the main types of micro-wind turbine?
• Q2. What type of wind turbine accepts wind from any direction?
• Q3. What is a micro-wind turbine system battery pack used for?
• Q4. What options are there for mounting a micro-wind turbine?

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems – Regulatory Requirements The installation of environmental technology systems will require compliance with a number of regulatory requirements including health and safety, electrical regulations and regulations relating to the connection of ‘on-grid’ micro-wind turbine systems. Within this section we look at the basic regulatory requirements in relation to:

• Building Regulations
• Town and Country Planning Regulations

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance A Structure Where micro-wind turbines are mounted on buildings and put load on the structure B Fire Safety Where holes for cables etc. may reduce the fire resistant integrity of the building structure C Site preparation and resistance to moisture Where holes for cables etc. may reduce the moisture resistant integrity of the building structure E Resistance to the passage of sound Where holes for cables etc. may reduce sound proof integrity of the building structure P Electrical safety in dwellings Safe installation of electrical controls and components Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations

The installation of micro-wind turbines is not classed as permitted

development. At present planning permission is nearly always required to install a micro-wind turbine to a building, or grounds surrounding a building. Factors that may affect whether permission is granted or not include:

• visual impact
• noise
• vibration
• electrical interference (with TV aerials)
• safety

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems – Building location and feature requirements For the potential to install to a micro-wind turbine system to exist, as a minimum some or all of the following building and location factors will need to be considered:

• average wind speed
• height at which the turbine can be mounted
• obstructions and turbulence
• a location that will not be affected by turbine noise,

vibration and flicker

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems – Average Wind Speed The average wind speed is a critical factor in determining the viability of a micro-wind turbine system. Wind speed is measure in metres per second (m/s) Whilst micro-wind turbines will typically start generating electricity at 3-4 m/s, the minimum viable wind speed is 5 m/s.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems – Average Wind Speed Most micro-wind turbines will reach their maximum rated output at between 10-14 m/s so this is the ideal wind speed range. Wind speed can be measured on-site using an anemometer but if this is done measurements should be taken over a period of months to be accurate. There is a national wind speed database but this database is no longer being

• updated. The database also has limitations

in terms of its relevance to micro-wind turbine installations.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems – Height, Obstruction and Turbulence Considerations

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems - Noise, Vibration and Flicker Considerations

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems Learning Check 2

• Q1. Which part of the Building Regulations need to be considered

when a micro-wind turbine is to be mounted directly onto a building ?

• Q2. Is a micro-wind turbine installation classified as permitted

development?

• Q3. What is the minimum recommended average wind speed for a

micro-wind turbine?

• Q4. What is the ideal average wind speed range for a micro-wind

turbine?

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Wind Turbine Systems – Advantages and Disadvantages Some example advantages and disadvantages are:

Advantages

Disadvantages

Micro-wind turbine electricity generation output levels can be very good in the UK which has 40%

• f Europe’s wind resource

Requires a suitable mounting site, ideally well away from buildings and obstructions The technology qualifies for Feed-In Tariff payments Initial installation costs can be off- putting It is a zero carbon technology Variable performance according to the availability of wind Can be a very effective technology where no mains electricity is available Micro-wind turbines can cause noise, vibration and flicker problems

Electricity Producing Technologies

An Introduction to Micro-Hydropower Systems

Micro-Hydropower Systems: Objectives At the end of this session you will:

• understand the fundamental working principles of micro-

hydropower systems

• recognise the top level regulatory requirements that apply in

relation to micro-hydropower systems installation work

• recognise the fundamental requirements of building location and

building features for the potential to install to a micro- hydropower system to exist

• recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages micro-

hydropower systems



Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Hydropower Systems – Introduction Micro-hydropower systems make use of the natural water resource to generate electrical energy A micro-hydropower turbine operates on the principle that water passing across or through a turbine causes the turbine to rotate. The turbine shaft is connected to a generator that converts the hydropower to electrical energy Micro-hydropower is a zero carbon technology.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Hydropower Systems – Basic System Categories As with other electricity producing technologies there are a number of system types, variations and configurations. Micro-hydropower turbine systems also fall into two basic system categories. ‘on-grid’ system

‘off-grid’ system Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro–Hydropower System – Basic principles

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Hydropower Systems - Building location and feature requirements For the potential to install to a micro-hydropower system to exist, the key requirements are:

• the availability of a water course (river, stream etc.)
• the ability to achieve adequate ‘hydraulic head’ an ‘flow’ within

the system design

• a suitable location for an inlet
• a suitable location for the turbine and generator
• a suitable location for the tailrace outlet

Adequate ‘hydraulic head’ an ‘flow’ is also a key factor that will determine the type of micro-hydropower turbine that can be used.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro–Hydropower Systems – Head and Flow

Head = the vertical distance between the upper and lower water levels or the vertical distance between the intake and turbine Flow = the quantity of water that is moving

• ver a given period of

time

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Hydropower Systems - Turbine Classification Micro-hydropower turbines are classified according to their ability to

• perate in high, medium or low head conditions and also are classified

being either an ‘impulse’ turbines or a ‘reaction’ turbine according to how they operate:

• Impulse turbine – where the turbine wheel or runner is surrounded

by air and the turbine is moved by the impulse created by a jet or ‘jets’ of water that is aimed at the turbine. Types of impulse turbine include Pelton, Multi-jet Pelton, Turgo, Cross-flow.

• Reaction turbine - where the turbine wheel or runner is fully

immersed in water and the turbine is moved in reaction to flow of the water Types of reaction turbine include Francis (spiral case), Francis (open-flume), Propeller and Kaplan

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro–Hydropower Systems – Example Pelton Type ‘Impulse’ Turbine

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro–Hydropower Systems – Example Horizontal Francis Type ‘Reaction’ Turbine

Plan view Side view

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro–Hydropower Systems – Example turbine applications in relation to available head of water

Turbine Type Head Classification High (> 50m) Medium (10 to 50m) Low (> 10m) Impulse Pelton Turgo Multi-jet Pelton Crossflow Turgo Multi-jet Pelton Crossflow Reaction Francis (Spiral Case) Francis (open- flume) Propeller Kaplan

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro–Hydropower Systems – Example ‘Reverse Archimedean Screw’ Type Turbine

The ‘Reverse Archimedean Screw’ is an alternative type of turbine that is sometimes used for larger micro-hydropower

• schemes. This type of

turbine is particularly suitable for low head installations and is also ‘fish friendly’ allowing fish and eels to pass through without injury.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro–Hydropower Systems Learning Check 1

• Q1. What is the purpose of a the ‘penstock ‘in a micro-hydropower

system

• Q2. After the availability of a water course, what is the next key

factors that will determine the potential for a micro-hydropower installation?

• Q3. Which type of turbine operates using a jet or ‘jets’ of water ?
• Q4. What type of turbine is most likely to be considered as ‘fish

friendly’?

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Hydropower Systems – Regulatory Requirements The installation of a micro-hydropower system will require compliance with a number of regulatory requirements including health and safety, electrical regulations and regulations relating to the connection of ‘on-grid’ micro-hydropower systems. Within this section we look at regulatory requirements in relation to micro-hydropower systems:

• Building Regulations
• Town and Country Planning Regulations
• Environmental Regulations

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Hydropower Systems– Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance A Structure Where any part of the micro-hydropower system puts load on the structure B Fire Safety Where holes for cables etc. may reduce the fire resistant integrity of the building structure C Site preparation and resistance to moisture Where holes for cables etc. may reduce the moisture resistant integrity of the building structure E Resistance to the passage of sound Where holes for cables etc. may reduce sound proof integrity of the building structure P Electrical safety in dwellings Safe installation of electrical controls and components in dwellings Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Hydropower Systems –Town and Country Planning Regulations

The key features of a micro-hydropower scheme include:

• a hydraulic 'head' - vertical distance from water source to the turbine.
• a water intake
• a pipe or channel to take water to the turbine
• a turbine, generator and electrical connection
• an outflow, where the water returns to the watercourse

These elements raise a number of important planning issues and planning permission will usually be needed. The elements of a small-scale hydro electricity scheme create potential impacts on:

• landscape and visual amenity
• nature conservation
• the water regime.

Some form of environmental assessment is also essential when it comes to applying for planning permission and environmental licenses. Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Hydropower Systems – Environmental Regulations and Licences

All water courses of any size in England and Wales are controlled by the

Environment Agency. To remove water from them (even though it may go back in) will almost certainly require their permission in the form of a

• licence. There are three licences that can apply to a hydropower scheme:
• Abstraction Licence - if water is being diverted ‘away from the main line
• f flow of the river’. Part of the consideration will be fish migration.

Most micro-hydropower turbines are not ‘fish friendly’ so where fish migration is a factor, an abstraction licence will only be issued with conditions stating the requirement for fish screens and a fish pass arrangement

• Impoundment Licence - if changes are being made to structures which

impound water, such as weirs and sluices, or if new structures are to be built.

• Land Drainage Consent - for any works being carried out in a ‘main

channel’

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro-Hydropower Systems – Environmental Regulations

It is necessary to carry out a Environmental Site Audit (ESA) as part of the process of identifying the suitability of a micro-hydropower

• installation. The ESA covers the following areas:
• Water resources
• Conservation
• Chemical and physical water quality
• Biological water quality
• Fisheries
• Flood risk
• Navigation

The Environment Agency must always be consulted as early as possible when a micro-hydropower installation is being considered.

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro–Hydropower Systems Learning Check 2

• Q1. Is a micro-hydropower installation classified as ‘permitted

development’ under the Town and Country Planning Regulations?

• Q2. What is an Abstraction Licence?
• Q3. Which body would issue an Abstraction Licence?
• Q4. What type of audit must be carried out as part of the process to

decide is a micro-hydropower installation is possible?

Electricity Producing Technologies

Micro–Hydropower Systems – Advantages and Disadvantages Some example advantages and disadvantages are: Advantages Disadvantages It is a zero carbon technology Requires a watercourse with suitable head and flow The technology qualifies for Feed-In Tariff payments Initial installation costs can be

• ff-putting

Excellent payback potential Usually requires planning permission and Can be a very effective technology where no mains electricity is available Requires permission from the Environment Agency

Electricity Producing Technologies

An Introduction to Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems (Heat Led): Objectives At the end of this section you will:

• understand the fundamental working principles of a heat-led

micro-combined heat and power system

• recognise the top level regulatory requirements that apply in

relation to a heat-led micro-combined heat and power system installation work

• recognise the fundamental requirements of building location

and building features for the potential to install to a heat-led micro-combined heat and power system to exist

• recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages a heat-led

micro-combined heat and power system



Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems (Heat Led) - Introduction

A heat-led micro-combined heat and power (mCHP) system includes a

mCHP unit, similar in appearance to a heating system boiler, that generates some electricity as well as generating heat for domestic hot water and space heating purposes. The term ‘heat-led’ means that the generation of the electricity occurs when the unit is responding to a system demand for heat and that the majority of output from the unit is for heating purposes. Although mCHP units have existed for some time, units suitable for domestic installations have only recently become available. The currently available domestic units are gas-fired only. Other fuels options may be available for non-domestic units.

Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems (Heat Led) - Introduction

mCHP is a low carbon technology and the units are typically up to 95% efficient.

Typical mCHP System Energy Flows

Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Unit Components

The key mCHP unit internal components are:

• an engine or gas turbine
• an alternator
• two heat exchangers
• a supplementary burner
• a combustion fan
• electrical controls (not

illustrated) mCHP units can contain any of the following engine types

• External combustion (Stirling

type illustrated )

• Internal combustion
• Organic rankine cycle

Example mCHP Unit

Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Unit Operation (Stirling Engine Unit)

When demand for heat occurs, a gas burner provides heat to the Stirling engine unit causing the Stirling engine to operate. The Stirling engine unit includes a generator comprising a piston that moves between a copper coil. As the Stirling engine operates electricity is generated providing the engine runs for a minimum period of time and does not cycle on and off. There is a limit (typically 25% of total unit output) to the amount of heat that can be provided during the operation of the Stirling engine. When additional heat is needed to meet higher demand, the supplementary burner operates. Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Unit – Electrical Output and System Connections A domestic mCHP unit will typically generate between 1kW and 1.5kW of

• electricity. Larger mCHP units typically

generate up to 5-6 kW of electricity. The preferred connection arrangement between the mCHP unit and the main electricity system is using a dedicated circuit from/to the consumer unit (Option 1). Where this is difficult, it is possible to connect the unit to an existing final circuit (Option 2). All electrical work must be designed, installed and tested by a competent person.

Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Unit – Electrical Output and System Connections Any surplus electricity can be exported to the distribution grid. mCHP installations are eligible for Feed-In Tariff payments providing the installation is carried out by a Microgeneration Certification Scheme MCS) certified contractor using an MCS approved unit.

Co-generation Technologies

Micro–Combined Heat and Power Systems Learning Check 1

• Q1. How does a mCHP unit generate electricity?
• Q2. Approximately, what percentage of the energy produced by a

mCHP unit is electrical energy ?

• Q3. What is the maximum efficiency of a mCHP unit?
• Q4. Are mCHP installations eligible for Feed-in Tariff payments?

Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems – Regulatory Requirements The installation of a micro-combined heat an power system will require compliance with a number of regulatory requirements including health and safety, electrical regulations and regulations relating to the connection of ‘on-grid’ micro-combined heat and power systems. Within this session we consider two primary regulatory requirements in relation to micro-combined heat and power systems

• Building Regulations
• Town and Country Planning Regulations

Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance A Structure Where the mCHP unit and other components put load on the structure B Fire Safety Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the fire resistant integrity of the building structure C Site preparation and resistance to moisture Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the moisture resistant integrity of the building structure E Resistance to the passage of sound Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce sound proof integrity of the building structure Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance G Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency Hot water safety and water efficiency J Combustion appliances and Fuel Storage system mCHP units are a heat-producing combustion appliance and must be installed safely L Conservation of fuel and power Energy efficiency of the system and the building P Electrical safety in dwellings Safe installation of electrical controls and components Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations Planning permission is not normally needed when installing a micro-combined heat and power system in a house if the work is all

• internal. If the installation requires a flue
• utside, however, it will normally be

permitted development if:

• Flues on the rear or side elevation of the

building project to a maximum of one metre above the highest part of the roof.

Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations If the building is listed or in a designated area even if the building has permitted development rights it is advisable to check with the local planning authority before a flue is fitted. Consent is also likely to be needed for internal alterations. In a conservation area or in a World Heritage site the flue should not be fitted on the principal or side elevation if it would be visible from a highway. If the project also requires an outside building to store fuel or related equipment the same rules apply to that building as for other extensions and garden outbuildings.

Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems - Building location and feature requirements For the potential to install to a micro-combined heat and power system to exist, as a minimum some or all of the following building and location factors will need to be considered:

• A suitable route and termination point for the mCHP unit flue

system

• A suitable heat-demand – heat-led mCHP units only generate

electricity when the unit engine is able to run for a minimum period of time. Additionally, the unit will not be as efficient if the unit cycles ‘on and ‘off’ Small dwellings and dwelling with low heat demand are not suitable for heat-led mCHP.

Co-generation Technologies

Micro–Combined Heat and Power Systems Learning Check 2

• Q1. Is the installation of a mCHP in a house classified as permitted

development under the Town and Country Planning Regulations?

• Q2. What effect does ‘on’ – ‘off’ cycling operation have on a mCHP

unit?

• Q3. What type of heat-demand is most suitable for a mCHP system?

Co-generation Technologies

Micro-Combined Heat and Power Systems – Advantages and Disadvantages Some example advantages and disadvantages are:

Advantages

Disadvantages

Domestic mCHP units are now similar in size to a central heating boiler The cost of domestic mCHP units do not compare favourably to central heating boilers Heat-led mCHP units produce free electricity whilst generating heat Heat-led mCHP units are not suitable for property with low heat demand Eligible for Feed-in Tariff payments (subject to conditions) Heat-led mCHP units have a limited electrical generation capacity Does not rely on building orientation

• r weather conditions to generate

renewable electricity Unlike other renewable electricity producing technologies, mCHP is a low carbon rather than zero carbon technology Co-generation Technologies

An Introduction to Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Objectives At the end of this section you will:

• understand the fundamental working principles of a rainwater

harvesting system

• recognise the top level regulatory requirements that apply in

relation to rainwater harvesting system installation work

• recognise the fundamental requirements of building location and

building features for the potential to install to a rainwater harvesting system to exist

• recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages rainwater

harvesting systems



Rainwater Harvesting Systems - Introduction

Water Conservation Technologies

A rainwater harvesting system captures and stores rainwater for permitted non-wholesome usage. Harvested rainwater is classified as Class 5 Risk under the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. This classification is the highest risk classification given and as a result harvested rainwater can only be used for permitted uses.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems - Introduction

Water Conservation Technologies

Main types of rainwater harvesting system

Water Conservation Technologies Rainwater Harvesting Systems Example indirect distribution system with below ground tank

Please note that due to the intended purpose of this course, some system components are not shown. This is not an installation diagram.

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting System Components - Storage Tank

The storage tank can be located above or below ground providing the stored water is protected from freezing, warming and bacterial contamination.

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting System Components – Back-up water supply

There is potential that in times of drought and/or heavy demand, the harvested rainwater system will not be able to supply the outlets connected to the system. For this reason, it is normal practice for a back-up water supply connection to be provided from the wholesome water supply system. As harvested rainwater is a Class 5 risk, the back-up water must be connected by a suitable backflow prevention arrangement to prevent backflow of the stored rainwater into the wholesome water supply system. The only backflow prevention arrangement that are suitable for a Class 5 risk is an arrangement that provides a physical air gap between the stored rainwater and the wholesome water supply connection. Type AA and Type AB air gaps are suitable.

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting System Components – Signage and Labelling

It is a requirement of the Water Regulations that all points of use be labelled to identify that they are supplied with harvested rainwater. In addition, the Water Regulations also require that all distribution pipework is labelled to identify that it is part of a harvested rainwater system.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems Learning Check 1

• Q1. Is harvested rainwater suitable for use to supply a bath or

shower?

• Q2. What is the purpose of a Type AA air gap arrangement in a

rainwater harvesting system?

• Q3. Why is labelling and marking of rainwater harvesting

pipework and outlets important?

• Q4. Which component is a floated extraction connected to?

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting Systems – Regulatory Requirements

The installation of rainwater harvesting systems will require

compliance with a number of regulatory requirements including health and safety, water regulations . Within this session we consider two primary regulatory requirements in relation to rainwater harvesting systems :

• Building Regulations
• Town and Country Planning Regulations

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance A Structure Where rainwater harvesting system components put load on the structure and/or where excavations are made near to the structure B Fire Safety Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the fire resistant integrity of the building structure C Site preparation and resistance to moisture Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the moisture resistant integrity of the building structure

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part Topic

Relevance or possible relevance E Resistance to the passage

• f sound

Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce sound proof integrity of the building structure G Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency Water efficiency H Drainage and Waste Disposal Rainwater gutters and rainwater pipework connected to rainwater harvesting systems P Electrical safety in dwellings The connection of rainwater harvesting system electrical components Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations Planning permission is not normally needed when installing a rainwater harvesting system in a house if the finished installation does not alter the outside appearance of the property. Where above ground rainwater harvesting storage tanks are to be included, planning permission may be required.

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations If the building is listed or in a designated area it is advisable to check with the local planning authority before installing a rainwater harvesting system even if the building has permitted development rights . Consent is also likely to be needed for internal alterations to listed buildings. The local planning authority should also be consulted if the property is In a conservation area or in a World Heritage site. If the project requires an outside building to house the rainwater harvesting storage tanks same rules apply to that building as for other extensions and garden outbuildings.

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting Systems - Building location and feature requirements For the potential to install to a rainwater harvesting system to exist, as a minimum some or all of the following building and location factors will need to be considered:

• A suitable location and space for a storage tank of a suitable size to meet

the demand.

• A suitable location for rainwater harvesting system storage tank(s) to

minimize the potential for freezing, warming and algal blooms

• For retrofit installations access for excavation machinery may also need to

be considered.

• A suitable supply (yield) of rainwater in relation to the demand on the
• system. Rainwater harvesting systems are not suitable for areas with a

low rainfall intensity or suitable for buildings with a small rainwater catchment area.

• The availability of a wholesome back-up water supply

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting Systems Learning Check 2

• Q1. Why is Part A of the Building Regulations relevant to the

installation of a rainwater harvesting system?

• Q2. Is planning permission normally required for a rainwater

harvesting system installation?

• Q3. Is a rainwater harvesting system suitable for a building that is

located in an area with low rainfall intensity?

Water Conservation Technologies

Rainwater Harvesting Systems – Advantages and Disadvantages Some example advantages and disadvantages are:

Advantages

Disadvantages Conserves wholesome water Payback periods can be long. Indirectly reduces energy consumption and reduces carbon emissions Not always straightforward to install to an existing building A wide range of system options exist There is a risk of contamination or cross-connection Rainwater is free so for buildings where a water meter is fitted the annual cost of water will reduce Only certain types of outlet and appliance can be supplied using harvested rainwater Water Conservation Technologies

An Introduction to Greywater Reuse Systems

Greywater reuse Systems; Objectives At the end of this section you will:

• understand the fundamental working principles of a greywater

reuse system

• recognise the top level regulatory requirements that apply in

relation to greywater reuse system installation work

• recognise the fundamental requirements of building location and

building features for the potential to install to a greywater reuse system to exist

• recognise the typical advantages and disadvantages for greywater

reuse systems



Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater Reuse Systems - Introduction

A greywater reuse system captures

and stores ‘grey’ waste water that is discharged from washbasins, baths, showers washing machines and kitchen sinks for permitted non- wholesome usage A greywater reuse reduces mains water usage.

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater Reuse Systems – Introduction Greywater is not suitable for use and is not permitted for use for the following purposes:

• Drinking water
• Dishwashing (hand or machine)
• Food preparation
• Personal washing, showering bathing

Water Conservation Technologies

Water Conservation Technologies Greywater Reuse Systems – Storage, Treatment and Use Considerations

Greywater from showers, baths and washbasins will often be contaminated with human intestinal bacteria and viruses as well as

• rganic debris such as skin particles and hair.

Greywater will also contain residues of soaps, detergents and other cosmetic products; these often contain nutrients that help bacteria

• develop. This combination of bacteria, organic material and nutrients

provides ideal conditions for bacteria to grow. The relatively high temperature of greywater can also encourage the growth of bacteria further. For these reasons untreated greywater should never be stored for more than a few hours.

Water Conservation Technologies Greywater Reuse Systems – Storage, Treatment and Use Considerations

If greywater is to be used for irrigation, it should be directly applied to soil and not through a sprinkler or method that would allow contact with above ground portions of plants. Greywater should not be used to water crops, which are eaten

• uncooked. It is recommended that greywater should not be applied to

seedlings or young plants.

Greywater reuse Systems – Types of system System Type Description Direct reuse system A system that collects greywater from appliances and delivers it directly to the points of use with no treatment and minimal, or no storage. Short retention system A system that includes a basic filtration or treatment technique such as surface skimming and allow for natural particle settlement. Basic physical/ chemical system A system that filter s greywater prior to storage and uses chemical disinfectants such as chlorine or bromine to stop bacterial growth during storage

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems – Types of system System Type Description Biological system A system that introduces an agent, such as oxygen, into the stored greywater to allow bacteria to digest any unwater organic mater. Pumps or plants can be used to aerate the stored water. Bio-mechanical system A system that combines both physical and biological treatment. Hybrid system A combination of any of the above systems or a combiner rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse system.

Water Conservation Technologies

Example Greywater System Layout and Key Components

Please note that due to the intended purpose of this course, some system components are not

• shown. This is not an

installation diagram. Example layout for an above ground greywater reuse three chamber storage tank with direct distribution system

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems Learning Check 1

• Q1. Is reclaimed greywater suitable for use to supply a clothes

washing machine?

• Q2. What is a direct reuse greywater system ?
• Q3. Is reclaimed greywater suitable for use to water vegetables

that will be eaten uncooked?

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems – Regulatory Requirements

The installation of greywater reuse systems will require compliance

with a number of regulatory requirements including health and safety, water regulations . Within this session we consider two primary regulatory requirements in relation to greywater reuse systems :

• Building Regulations
• Town and Country Planning Regulations

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part Topic Relevance or possible relevance A Structure Where greywater reuse system components put load on the structure and/or where excavations are made near to the structure B Fire Safety Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the fire resistant integrity of the building structure C Site preparation and resistance to moisture Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce the moisture resistant integrity of the building structure

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems – Regulatory Requirements Building Regulations

Part

Topic Relevance or possible relevance E Resistance to the passage of sound Where holes for pipes etc. may reduce sound proof integrity of the building structure G Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency Water efficiency H Drainage and Waste Disposal Sanitary pipework connected to greywater reuse systems P Electrical safety in dwellings The connection of greywater reuse system electrical components

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations Planning permission is not normally needed when installing a greywater reuse system in a house if the finished installation does not alter the outside appearance of the property. Where above ground greywater reuse storage tanks are to be included, planning permission may be required. If the building is listed or in a designated area it is advisable to check with the local planning authority before installing a greywater reuse system even if the building has permitted development rights . Consent is also likely to be needed for internal alterations to listed buildings.

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems – Regulatory Requirements Town and Country Planning Regulations The local planning authority should also be consulted if the property is In a conservation area or in a World Heritage site. If the project requires an outside building to house the greywater reuse storage tanks same rules apply to that building as for other extensions and garden

• utbuildings.

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems - Building location and feature requirements

For the potential to install to a greywater reuse system to exist, as a minimum some or all of the following building and location factors will need to be considered:

• A suitable location and space for a storage tank of a suitable size to meet

the demand.

• A suitable location for greywater system storage tank(s) to minimize the

potential for freezing, warming and algal blooms

• For retrofit installations access for excavation machinery may also need to

be considered.

• A suitable supply (yield) of greywater in relation to the demand on the
• system. Greywater reuse systems are not suitable for buildings with a low

volume of greywater discharge.

• The availability of a wholesome back-up water supply

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems Learning Check 2

• Q1. Why is Part H of the Building Regulations relevant to the

installation of a greywater reuse system?

• Q2. Is planning permission normally required for a greywater re-

use system installation?

• Q3. Is a greywater reuse system likely to be suitable for a

property with two occupants who prefer to take sort showers instead of baths?

Water Conservation Technologies

Greywater reuse Systems – Advantages and Disadvantages Some example advantages and disadvantages are:

Advantages Disadvantages Conserves wholesome water Payback periods can be long. Indirectly reduces energy consumption and reduces carbon emissions Not always straightforward to install to existing building A wide range of system options exist There is a risk of contamination

• r cross-connection

Greywater is free so for buildings where a water meter is fitted the annual cost of water will reduce Only certain types of outlet and appliance can be supplied using reclaimed greywater

Water Conservation Technologies

Construction Ready : Green Skills for Go! is a London Capital Colleges project

Supported by Funded through Strategic partners