Personal energy self-sufficiency is coming closer to reality as micro-scale systems allow homes and small buildings to recycle their own heat waste.

Combined heat and power (CHP) systems capture energy from space or water heaters and convert it to electricity. The technology could potentially cut carbon-dioxide emissions by up to 30%, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Large applications of CHP systems have been in use for many years, but only recently have they been scaled down to sizes suitable for residential or small-business use.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Energy Star Emerging Technology Award, www.energy star.gov/emergingtech.