Baxi domestic boiler to generate power

Heating specialist Baxi has unveiled a new domestic boiler that sounds almost too good to be true. The Micro-CHP is essentially a gas boiler, similar in size to a normal wall hung boiler, which generates electricity for use in the home while providing heating and hot water. The only downside I can see at the moment is that it wont be available for at least another twelve months.

The combined heat and power (CHP) unit generates 1kW of electricity per hour using a Free Piston Stirling Engine. Any extra electricity needed can be supplemented from the National Grid. In addition, any electricity generated by the unit that is surplus to requirement may be sold back to the National Grid.

According to Baxi, housebuilders and utility companies attended a micro-CHP open day last month when they had the opportunity to visit field trials where the units have been working in homes for the last 12 months, generating electricity and selling the surplus back into the National Grid.

Speaking about the domestic boiler, Chief Executive Officer of Baxi Group UK, Martyn Coffey said, “We are delighted with the response we have had to micro-CHP. If the Government’s targets for reducing carbon dioxide emissions are to be met, we as an industry have to step up to the plate and invest in developing technologies for the future. Gaining recognition of the product at the highest level means it will be easier when the product is ready for general distribution at the end of 2008.”

To find out more visit www.baxi.co.uk