CFCL has signed an agreement with Szencorp to install the 1kW micro combined heat and power (micro-CHP) generator to provide electricity and hot water for 40 Albert Road in South Melbourne, which has received a 5 star Australian Green Building Rating and is on track for a 6 star rating with the installation of the generator.

The micro-CHP generator uses natural gas to produce energy with low greenhouse gas output, reducing emissions by “cracking” the gas rather than burning it. It is seen as the next step forward in providing clean, sustainable energy for small-to-medium domestic and commercial developments.

“The micro-CHP is growing in prominence in the home and small office market in Europe and the United Kingdom, and fuel cells and the hydrogen economy are generally recognised as the energy solution of the 21st century,” said CFCL chief executive officer Brendan Dow.

“Our fuel cell-powered CHP unit uses readily available natural gas and also has the potential to use renewable fuels such as ethanol or biogas.

"Another benefit is that it converts gas to electricity in a silent process without the noise of conventional generators. All round, the unit is a win-win for energy savings, greenhouse emissions and the environment.”