What is a cogeneration system?

A cogeneration system is specifically designed to produce both electricity and useful heat simultaneously from the same fuel source. This process utilizes the waste heat generated during electricity production, which would otherwise be lost in conventional power generation methods. By capturing this heat and utilizing it for space heating, water heating, or industrial processes, cogeneration systems significantly enhance overall energy efficiency.

Cogeneration is often implemented in facilities where both electricity and heat are needed, such as hospitals, industrial plants, and residential buildings, allowing them to optimize energy use and reduce overall consumption costs. This dual output supports sustainability initiatives, as it reduces the amount of fuel needed to generate the same energy output, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions as a result.

The other options do not accurately describe cogeneration. For instance, a system that only generates electricity does not utilize the waste heat effectively, and backup power supplies or systems used solely for cooling purposes do not meet the definition of cogeneration, which focuses on the combined production of electricity and thermal energy.