Cogeneration

Abstract This chapter presents a brief overview of cogeneration systems, which includes introductory comments, descriptions of basic systems and terminology, descriptions of prime movers and major equipment, some comments on technical designs, a summary of relevant regulations, descriptions of economic evaluations, and comments on financial and ownership aspects. A cogeneration system may be classified as either a topping‐cycle system or a bottoming‐cycle system. Cogeneration systems consist of several major pieces of equipment and many smaller components. The chapter describes the other major equipment (electrical equipment, heat recovery devices, absorption chillers, and balance of plant equipment). The selection of a prime mover for a cogeneration system involves the consideration of a variety of technical and nontechnical issues. The chapter includes overviews of the relevant federal regulations on electric power generation by cogenerators and the related environmental constraints. Cogeneration systems are attractive options for facilities where electrical power and thermal energy are used.