Cogeneration

Cogeneration is the process by which we obtain both electricity and useful thermal energy (steam, sanitary hot water), achieving greater energy efficiency by leveraging, in the same process, both the waste heat as the mechanical or electrical energy. Used in both industrial and domestic purposes, although it's often used just for large buildings or district heating.

Most of the electricity and heat cogeneration plants use Natural Gas as primary energy source. They run on gas turbines or engines. However, renewable energy sources, such as biomass and biogas, can be used, too.

The hot steam coming out of a turbine can be used to heat water for different uses. The heat and power cogeneration plants can achieve an energy efficiency of around 90%, saving energy, improving the supply security and reducing losses in the electric grid because cogeneration  plants are usually located near points of consumption.