“A CHP (Combined Heat and Power) unit, also known as a cogeneration system, is a type of power generation technology that simultaneously produces electricity and useful heat (thermal energy) from a single fuel source. This process is more efficient than separate electricity and heat generation, as it captures and utilizes waste heat that would otherwise be wasted in conventional power plants.
Here’s how a CHP unit typically works:
Fuel Input: The CHP unit is fuelled by various sources, such as natural gas, biogas, diesel, biomass, or even waste heat from industrial processes.
Power Generation: The fuel is burned in an engine, turbine, or another prime mover, depending on the specific type of CHP unit. This generates mechanical energy.
Electrical Generation: The mechanical energy is then converted into electricity through a generator, producing electrical power.
Heat Recovery: In traditional power plants, a significant portion of the energy is lost as waste heat during electricity generation. However, in a CHP unit, the waste heat produced during electricity generation is captured and utilized for heating purposes.
Thermal Output: The captured waste heat is used for various heating applications, such as providing hot water for buildings, space heating, industrial processes, or even for district heating systems.
Overall Efficiency: The combined generation of electricity and useful heat in a CHP unit results in higher overall energy efficiency compared to separate electricity and heat generation. This is because the waste heat, which would otherwise be wasted, is put to good use, making the process more efficient and cost-effective.
CHP units are used in various applications, including commercial and industrial facilities, hospitals, universities, district heating systems, and some residential applications. They are particularly suitable for buildings or facilities with high heat demands since the thermal output significantly improves their efficiency compared to traditional power plants.”