WASHINGTON, DC (February 28, 2019) — The Alliance for Industrial Efficiency applauds the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), David McKinley (R-WV), Paul Tonko (D-NY), and Peter Welch (D-VT) in reintroducing the CHP Support Act (H.R.1480) for the 116th Congress.
Combined heat and power (CHP) and waste heat to power (WHP) systems are a proven and effective means for reducing energy use in the industrial sector. This in turn saves money and helps make US manufacturers more competitive, all while reducing emissions. What’s more, because these systems can operate independently of the grid, they help their hosts keep the lights and heat on during natural or manmade disasters. CHP already provides 12% of US electricity generation, but the potential is far greater.
“The Alliance for Industrial Efficiency is proud to support this important legislation, which would enhance American manufacturing competitiveness, reduce emissions, create jobs, and improve electric reliability. We look forward to working with Congress to enact the CHP Support Act,” said David Gardiner, executive director of the Alliance for Industrial Efficiency.
The CHP Support Act would help unleash the potential of CHP and WHP systems by authorizing continued funding for a network of ten Technical Assistance Partnerships (TAPs) for five years. TAPs provide CHP and WHP education to potential system hosts so that they can learn more about the technology and determine if it’s the right fit for their company. TAPs also provide screening assessments and guidance to sites interested in CHP and WHP before, during, and after installment. These programs help to ensure system hosts will have a successful transition to their new power source by helping them to overcome hurdles, such as choosing the correct system and identifying incentives to help with financing projects.
“CHP and WHP can be particularly valuable for critical infrastructure such as hospitals, airports, wastewater treatment plants, and more. As Congress considers infrastructure policy, the Alliance is thrilled that there is broad support for this resilient and low-emission technology,” added Gardiner.
The Alliance for Industrial Efficiency, along with American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, the Alliance to Save Energy, and the American Chemistry Council, previously announced our announced their endorsement of the CHP Support Act on National Energy Efficiency Day last fall.
To learn more about the opportunity for CHP and WHP, read our sector-specific factsheets and other resources.