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CHP Cogeneration
CHP (combined heat and power) or cogeneration is defined as the
simultaneous production of electricity and usable heat using a
fuel such as natural gas, although a variety of fuels can be used.
Before explaining more about cogeneration, first it is necessary to
understand a little about traditional generation methods.
Most power generation is based on burning a fuel, predominately coal,
although oil or gas are used, producing steam. It is the steam
pressure that spins the turbines that in turn drive the generators
to create electricity, unfortunately this is inherently an inefficient
process.
No more than approximately one third (33%) of the total energy potential
within original fuel can be converted into steam pressure, although
it must be said that the efficiency of gas turbines nears fifty percent
(50%). The balance, waste heat, without a local user, is dumped to the
atmosphere, using cooling towers or other convenient techniques.
How cogeneration systems work
Cogeneration systems produce both high grade hot water and electric power.
Thermal performance is comparable to conventional boilers, but in
addition, 26% of the fuel's energy is converted into high-grade electrical
energy. The overall efficiency in the region of eighty-five percent (85%)
is achieved.
Often modified internal combustion engines are used, burning natural gas as a
fuel source to enable facilities to efficiently create their own electricity and
hot water (or steam) on site. The valuable heat energy would be used to drive
air conditioning or other process heating needs.
Of course the cogeneration plant is self contained (within the fence) mitigating
the risk of external grid failures.
To learn more about CHP and cogeneration:
Further Information
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