What is a cogeneration plant designed to do?

A cogeneration plant, also known as a combined heat and power (CHP) system, is specifically designed to utilize the heat that is a byproduct of electricity generation. This dual functionality allows it to generate both electrical energy and useful thermal energy, such as process steam or hot water, from the same energy source.

The efficiency of cogeneration plants is significantly higher than that of separate systems for generating electricity and heat since they make effective use of the waste heat produced during electricity generation. By capturing and reusing this heat rather than letting it escape into the environment, these systems can achieve overall efficiencies that reach 80% to 90%.

In contrast, options that mention generating only electrical energy or only heat do not reflect the core purpose of cogeneration systems, which is to produce both simultaneously. Similarly, storing energy for future use does not align with the primary operational goal of cogeneration plants, as these facilities are focused on the immediate production of both electricity and thermal energy. This integrated approach makes cogeneration an attractive option for improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions in various industrial, commercial, and residential applications.