cogeneration
Cogeneration, or combined heat and power (CHP), is the simultaneous production of electricity and useful heat from a single energy source. By recovering waste heat, CHP achieves higher overall efficiency than separate generation of electricity and heat.
A CHP system uses a prime mover—such as a natural gas–fired turbine, engine, steam turbine, or fuel
Configurations include topping cycles, where electricity is produced first and waste heat is used for heating
Electrical efficiency for CHP typically ranges from 25 to 45 percent, while the overall system efficiency—electricity
Benefits include higher fuel utilization, lower energy costs, reduced emissions per unit of energy, and greater
CHP has roots in the 19th century and has achieved widespread adoption in Europe, North America, and
Challenges include higher capital costs, the need for a consistent heat load, and integration with existing
Related topics include district heating, energy efficiency, and microgrids.