A plausible forecast of the energy and emissions performance of mature-technology Stirling engine residential cogeneration systems in Canada

Building performance simulation has been used to provide a plausible estimate of the operational performance that could be expected from a mature-technology version of a Stirling engine (SE) residential cogeneration system. This was accomplished by applying lessons learned from investigating the actual performance of a prototype SE system. Simulation results show that if this mature technology system were to be applied in a single detached house with average heat demand in the province of Ontario, it would reduce both GHG and NOx emissions and would have lower primary energy input, even in comparison to a reference system consisting of the best available technology for a condensing forced-air furnace and a high-efficient water heater, and the most efficient fossil-fuels based central power production technology (natural gas fired combined cycle). It must therefore be concluded that the mature technology SE system has real potential to improve efficiencies and reduce emissions in Ontario.