Where once chiller plants may have consisted solely of electric centrifugal chillers, hybrid plants include a combination of electric and non-electric chillers.  Hybrid plants offer the flexibility to operate at any given time with the energy source that provides the greatest operating economy. 

Conventional electric rate structures define peak and non-peak periods and impose penalties for operating chillers during the peak period.  Hybrid plants operating under this type of rate mechanism minimize electric costs by operating non-electric chillers during the peak period.

Similarly, under real time pricing, plant operators can configure a plan that uses the electric chiller when electric rates are the lowest cost option and an alternative chiller or chillers when electric rates are higher.  By determining the lowest cost-per-hour of each chiller at different utility rates and using automated technology, the most economical operating strategy can be developed on a daily basis.  

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