Honeywell says the prototype cooling, heating and power (CHP) generation system uses energy recycling to achieve up to 70% overall energy efficiency, compared to the 35-40% efficiency typically achieved by centrally generated electricity sources.
The $US11 million CHP system is an integrated system built around a 5MW gas turbine generator coupled with an innovative heat recovery steam generator and absorption chiller.
Natural gas fuels the turbine generator, with waste heat directed to either the heat-recovery steam generator or absorption chiller as required.
The steam generator uses waste heat to produce steam for heating and hot water, while the chiller converts waste heat to chilled water for air conditioning. The design is said to be the first of its kind, providing 'ultra-efficient' energy and climate control.
Honeywell has developed control software that optimises individual component operation and system interaction, reducing overall energy consumption and cost.
The prototype CHP has a modular design, allowing engineers to assemble pre-defined components into application-specific packaged systems suitable for large building complexes or single building facilities.
The prototype is the latest phase in an energy partnership between Honeywell and the Fort Bragg Directorate of Public Works, responsible for around 2.8 million square metres of facilities at the 84-year-old army post, home to 44,000 soldiers and their families.
The heat, hot water and cooling generated by the CHP prototype is supplied to barracks and other buildings throughout Fort Bragg, and is the most recent success in a series of energy-saving initiatives that have contributed to the facility being recognised as an Army Community of Excellence.
To date, the Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) has reduced the total energy costs at Fort Bragg by more than 25% over the last seven years. Honeywell estimates its involvement with ESPC has achieved savings of around $US57 million.
The ESPC contract allows the US Government to use private financing to implement energy savings at its buildings and facilities. Participants like Honeywell are paid a percentage of the achieved energy savings, fostering economic and environmental responsibility and technological innovation simultaneously.
"This has been an extremely productive relationship," said Honeywell Building Solutions president Joe Puishys.
"Over the entire course of the ESPC, Fort Bragg will be able to make $US66 million in capital investments at no additional operating cost to the Government and taxpayers."
"This type of partnership can achieve tremendous energy savings, reduce pollution and improve energy security," agreed Fort Bragg director of public works, Gregory Bean.
"Our success shows what can be accomplished when government and service providers share a vision."
