Cogeneration

Cogeneration, or the simultaneous production of electricity and process heat from the same fuel source, is an alternative power supply option available to industry (and to large commercial buildings) which can improve supply reliability, increase energy utilization efficiency, and reduce energy costs.

In general terms, the potential benefits of industrial cogeneration  are widely recognized and include:

• Reduced energy costs (e.g., using waste heat for power generation can be less costly than 'purchasing from the utility);

• Enhanced reliability of power supply. By generating their own power more reliably, industrial 'facilities can either reduce or eliminate the need for electric power purchases from an electric 'utility; 

• Improved quality of power supply. With their own cogeneration plants, industrial facilities that  'require high-quality electric power can either control or eliminate unacceptable voltage transients 'and frequency shifts that may occur in utility generated power.

Cogeneration Configurations:

Configurations are based on the type of prime movers utilized to meet a specific power-to heat ratio. Some of the more common types of configurations are as follows:

• Boiler-Steam Turbine

• Gas Turbine-Waste Heat Recovery Boiler

• Reciprocating Engine-Waste Heat Recovery Boiler

• Diesel Engine Cogeneration System, and

• Combined Cycle

Feasibility and Detailed Design studies for power generation and its alternate options, such as cogeneration, are an integral part of MEConsult's front-line activity areas. Under this caption, studies have been carried out ranging from large scale community development projects to industrial installations for dedicated use. The company has also carried out a macro level study on power generation potential in Pakistan which study can provide firm  inputs to entrepreneurs in this direction.