CHP means simultaneous production of heat and electricity. In this method, heat and electricity are produced in one process. This process is done using an internal engine or gas turbine. In this process, first the fuel (for example, natural gas or fossil fuels such as oil, coal, etc.) is burned in the engine or turbine and the resulting energy is used as electricity and heat. Using CHP reduces energy costs. and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Also, increasing energy efficiency and reducing dependence on the public power grid is also one of the advantages of using this method.
Performance of a thermal power generator
The efficiency of a thermal power generator (simultaneous production of electricity and heat) depends on the type of CHP system and the technology used. But in general, the efficiency of the CHP system is higher compared to the electricity generation systems because in the CHP system, the heat that is lost in the electricity generation process is used to produce heat, which can lead to improved energy efficiency and reduced energy costs.
Typically, the efficiency of a CHP system is between 70 and 90%, while the efficiency of electricity-only systems is between 35 and 45%. In fact, from each unit of fuel used in the CHP system, the maximum amount of energy is obtained for the production of electricity and heat.
Also, the efficiency of a CHP system can depend on factors such as the type of fuel, the technology used, the lifetime of the system, and the amount of maintenance. For example, using high-efficiency fuels such as natural gas can help improve the efficiency of the CHP system. Also, new and better technologies for electricity and heat generation can help improve the efficiency of the CHP system and improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs.
Introducing the advantages of the CHP system
The system of simultaneous production of electricity and heat (CHP) or heat-electricity production system has an important place in sustainable energy production for many reasons, including high efficiency, reduction of energy costs, reduction of air pollution and increase of energy sustainability.
Some of the advantages of the CHP system are:
Improving energy efficiency
In the CHP system, the thermal energy that is wasted in the electricity generation process is transferred directly to the heating and cooling of buildings or industrial processes. This increases energy efficiency and reduces energy waste.
Reducing energy costs
With the simultaneous production of electricity and heat, energy costs are reduced and it is more efficient for buildings and industries.
Reducing air pollution
The CHP system can help reduce air pollution due to the use of sustainable energy sources and reduction of energy losses.
Ensuring energy sustainability
By using a CHP system, it is guaranteed that buildings and industries do not have to worry about possible problems in energy supply.
Reduced energy transfer
By using the CHP system, energy transmission from production centers to consumers is shortened and energy transmission costs are also reduced.
In general, the CHP system is a sustainable solution for the simultaneous production of electricity and heat due to its many advantages.


Introduction of disadvantages of CHP system
Combined heat and power (CHP) systems have many advantages, such as improving energy efficiency, reducing energy costs, and reducing emissions, compared to systems that produce only electricity. But as in any system, in the CHP system there are also disadvantages that should be considered. Some of the disadvantages of the CHP system are:
Installation cost
A CHP system is very complex and requires special equipment and facilities, which may cost more to install and operate than electricity-only systems.
Need to cool down
In some cases, the CHP system requires cooling, which can increase cooling costs and energy consumption.
Need for maintenance and repairs
The CHP system is complex and requires periodic maintenance and repairs. This can increase maintenance and repair costs.
Accuracy in design and installation
CHP system needs accurate design and correct installation for optimal operation. If the design and installation details are not paid attention to, the performance of the CHP system may decrease.
Need for control management
For optimal operation of the CHP system, it needs accurate control management. This issue requires special equipment and software to control and manage the CHP system.


In general, the CHP system, with its complexity and the need for periodic maintenance and repairs, is still less used in some countries than the electricity-only production systems.
last word
In this article, we introduced the CHP system and told what CHP is and what its application is. We also talked about the performance of the CHP system and its advantages and disadvantages. It should be noted that Elao Barq Tehran Company is the consultant, designer, implementer and supplier of the above equipment and helps the esteemed investors from the beginning of the project, obtaining the relevant permits to installation and commissioning, operation and maintenance and major repairs.