Cogeneration usually involves the generation of electricity and heat on site using natural gas. If there is not a substantial use of waste heat, then on-site generation without heat recovery is rarely cost effective (though may be installed for other reasons).
Advantages of cogeneration
With a cogeneration system in your facility, the following advantages may be achieved:
- reduced greenhouse gas emissions (since burning natural gas onsite to make electricity and capturing the waste heat will mostly be more efficient than a centralised power station)
- more certainty over some of your electricity costs
- reduced electricity costs depending on your individual circumstances
- additional energy security if a stand-alone systems is employed
Types of cogeneration
Cogeneration can be achieved through using:
- Microturbines with hot water heat recovery
- reciprocating gas engines with hot water and/or steam heat recovery
- large gas turbines with steam or hot water heat recovery
- ORC using the condenser for hot water heat recovery
- Fuel cells with hot water heat recovery
PHP Cogeneration Services
PHP is able to refer you to cogeneration service and equipment providers, and assist with optimising the system for your needs. Please contact us if you would like information on where it is suitable, who to talk to, and how to purchase on-site cogeneration systems.