Combined heat and power (CHP)

The generation of electricity and heat in a single process

Definition:

Combined heat and power is the simultaneous generation of mechanical energy and usable heat, which are produced in a single thermodynamic process. The mechanical energy is usually converted directly into electricity, whilst the heat is used for heating purposes – such as local or district heating – or as process heat in manufacturing processes.

Thus, when generating electricity from fuels, the useful heat is extracted, thereby reducing the release of unused waste heat into the environment. Combined heat and power enables fuel savings of up to one-third of the primary energy compared with the separate generation of electricity and heat; at the same time, however, the power station’s electrical efficiency is slightly reduced. Smaller CHP plants, with an electrical output of around 100 kW, play a significant role in supplying commercial premises, indoor swimming pools, residential areas and individual blocks of flats; these are known as micro-CHP plants.

Source: Wikipedia