kogeneratsiooni

Kogeneratsioon, also known as combined heat and power (CHP), is a process that simultaneously generates electricity and useful thermal energy from a single fuel source. This integrated approach significantly improves overall energy efficiency compared to generating electricity and heat separately. Typically, a CHP system utilizes a prime mover, such as a gas turbine, internal combustion engine, or steam turbine, to produce electricity. The waste heat produced during this electricity generation process, which would otherwise be lost, is then captured and used for heating or industrial processes.

The captured heat can be utilized in various applications, including space heating for buildings, hot water production, and in industrial settings for processes like drying, sterilization, and chemical reactions. The efficiency of CHP systems can reach up to 90%, a substantial improvement over conventional power plants that often operate at efficiencies of 30-50% for electricity generation alone. This higher efficiency leads to reduced fuel consumption and consequently lower greenhouse gas emissions per unit of energy produced.

CHP systems can be implemented at various scales, from large industrial facilities and district heating networks to smaller commercial buildings and even individual homes. The economic viability of a CHP system is often dependent on the local cost of fuel, electricity, and the demand for thermal energy. By recovering and utilizing waste heat, kogeneration plays a crucial role in optimizing energy resources and reducing the environmental impact of energy production.