The term is explained by Nikolai Kharitonov, Deputy Director for Production of Energia Plus LLC
Cogeneration is a technology in which electrical and thermal energy is simultaneously generated inside one device called a cogeneration unit (CHU). It can be based on gas piston, gas turbine or microturbine units. Cogeneration technology is widely used throughout the world.
The most important operational characteristics of cogeneration complexes are: high fuel efficiency, more than satisfactory environmental parameters. In addition, cogeneration makes it possible to ensure the energy autonomy of the facility.
The main reason for choosing cogeneration is the desire to maximize the use of primary fuel energy (for example, the use of thermal energy that was previously discharged into the atmosphere). The overall efficiency of the power station in cogeneration mode is 80-95%.