Co-generation

Co-generation or Combined Heat and Power (CHP) is a highly efficient process that simultaneously generates electricity and useful heat from the same energy source. This process is considered an effective method of energy conservation and is widely used in various industries and residential areas.

Overview

Co-generation is a thermodynamically efficient use of fuel. In separate production of electricity, some energy must be discarded as waste heat, but in co-generation, this thermal energy is put to use. All thermal power plants emit a certain amount of heat during electricity generation. This can be released into the natural environment through cooling towers, flue gas, or by other means. By contrast, CHP captures some or all of the by-product for heating, either very close to the plant, or—especially in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe—as hot water for district heating with temperatures ranging from approximately 80 to 130 °C. This is also called Combined Heat and Power District Heating (CHPDH). Small CHP plants are an example of decentralized energy.

History

The concept of Co-generation has been known and implemented since the beginning of the 20th century. The first commercial power plant was built in New York in 1882 by Thomas Edison and was a co-generation plant. The idea of co-generation was then gradually adopted by other countries and is now a significant part of the energy sector.

Applications

Co-generation systems are used in many industrial applications where there is a need for process heat and power. These include paper mills, refineries, chemical plants, and manufacturing facilities. In addition, co-generation is also used in district heating systems and in buildings such as hospitals and universities where there is a need for both heat and power.

Benefits

The main benefit of Co-generation is its efficiency. By capturing and utilizing the heat that would otherwise be wasted, co-generation systems can achieve efficiencies of up to 90%. This not only saves energy but also reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, co-generation systems can provide a more reliable and stable supply of electricity and heat, which can be particularly important in industries where a constant supply of energy is critical.

See also

• Energy conservation
• Thermal power station
• District heating
• Decentralized energy