Abstract: This invention provides a system and method for cogeneration of electric power and building heat that efficiently interfaces a liquid-cooled electric power generator with a multi-zone forced hot water (hydronic) space heating system. The system and method utilizes an electric generator with an electric output capacity (kW) that is near the time-averaged electric power consumption rate for the building and with a heat generation capacity that is useful for meeting building heating needs. This generator is operated as the priority source of heat for the building, but normally only when there is a demand for heat in building, with the intent of running the generator for long periods of time and generating a total amount of electric energy (kWhs) that is significant in comparison to the total electric energy consumption of the building over time.

Abstract: This invention provides a system and method for cogeneration of building heat and electric power and that efficiently interfaces a warm air heating system with a liquid-cooled electric power generator. The system and method utilizes an electric generator that is rated at near the time-averaged electric power consumption for the building. This generator is operated as the priority source of heat for the building, but normally only when there is a demand for heat in building. In this manner, the generator can run to generate a significant part of the building's electric power but in a manner that is typically supplemented in variable quantities by power from a public power grid. The heat output is directed via a liquid coolant circuit on the generator, as needed, to the warm air heating unit for the building. The warm air heating unit blows return air through a cabinet and out to the supply duct(s). The warm liquid coolant is directed through a primary heat exchanger in the cabinet.