Level 3 Investment-Grade Analysis
At this point, your facility has decided to go forward and it is time
develop and design an actual CHP system. It is definitely time to call in a
professional.
A professional design engineering firm will review the results of the
Level 2 Screening and may do some measurement and verification before moving
forward. They will then work with vendors to develop detailed design specs
that can be used as a basis for an RFP. [Link to the page on Level 2
Conceptual & Financial]
They may also work with your facility in the design of the
"balance-of-plant." Balance-of-plant items are those items required to
install the CHP unit, but that are not part of the CHP unit. They may
include piping, stack breaching, platforms, electrical switchgear, steam
piping, pumps, etc.
Additionally, if the local utility requires an interconnect study, the
engineering company can work with them on the details. They may have
personnel qualified to perform it or they will be able to recommend another
firm.
If your project is very small and cannot support the added expense of an
engineering firm's involvement, it may be possible to use the results of the
Level 2 Screening to get vendor bids.
In all cases, the U.S. DOE Midwest Clean Energy Application Center
is available as a technical consultant, usually at no charge. We can review
specifications and bids, review equipment sizing and choices, and help act
as your on-staff expert in CHP.
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