Thermal Tracking Cogeneration- A New or Old Idea? Cogeneration for Multi-Thermal Loads

Abstract

The concept of cogeneration has been around for decades. Euro-
pean communities have been successfully using the idea for many
years . The idea of designing a cogeneration project that produces
electricity based on the existing heating load is common to many
cogeneration projects, but may be limiting the ultimate potential to
the end user . Cogeneration which is developed as a power generator
producing a small amount of steam for a host load is also common.
However, the idea of designing a cogeneration facility to track mul-
tiple utility loads is not as common. Where the concept has been used ,
the projects have been very successful.
After decades of excellent books, articles, and conferences, many
energy professionals still focus their effort on the heating loads. They
evaluate this one factor to determine if a project is worthy of serious
consideration . What has been amazing is the lack of expertise and
knowledge of multiple load evaluations . The thermal loads include
both steam and high temperature hot water used for heating, chilled
water for air conditioning, refrigeration, process, compressed air and
other special uses . In many cases, the overall benefit to the project
own er and host tenant far exceeds the increase in the capital costs.
This article has been written as a primer for professionals look-
ing for ideas when performing analysis of a potential cogeneration
proj ect, and as a thought -provoker for end users . We will look at each
of the possible loads, outline various technical considerations and
fact ors, look at the factors impacting the economics, and layout an
approach that would provide assistance to those trying to analyze a
cog eneration project without specialized engineering assistance .
R egulat ory , legal and financing issues are covered in other sources .