Hyötykäyttölaitos

Hyötykäyttölaitos, often translated as utility plant or combined heat and power (CHP) plant, is a facility that generates both electricity and useful heat from a single fuel source. This process, known as cogeneration, significantly improves energy efficiency compared to generating electricity and heat separately. By recovering waste heat that would otherwise be lost in conventional power generation, a hyötykäyttölaitos can achieve overall efficiencies of 70-90%.

The primary fuels used in hyötykäyttölaitokset include natural gas, coal, biomass, and waste. The heat generated can be utilized for various purposes, such as district heating for buildings, industrial processes, or cooling through absorption chillers. The electricity produced is fed into the grid or used directly by the facility or nearby consumers.

Hyötykäyttölaitokset play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. By maximizing energy utilization, they contribute to lower fuel consumption and a smaller environmental footprint. Their deployment is often driven by economic incentives, environmental regulations, and the need for reliable and efficient energy supply. The design and operation of these plants are complex, requiring careful integration of power generation and heat recovery systems.