What is the main purpose of the heat recovery system in cogeneration?

The main purpose of a heat recovery system in cogeneration is to produce steam for process needs or space heating. This is a key aspect of cogeneration, which is the simultaneous production of electricity and useful thermal energy from the same energy source.

In cogeneration systems, the waste heat generated from the electricity generation process is captured and repurposed to provide thermal energy. This recovered heat can be utilized for various applications, such as producing steam for industrial processes, heating water, or providing space heating in buildings. By effectively using this waste heat, cogeneration systems enhance overall energy efficiency, reducing the amount of fuel needed for heating applications.

While increasing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions are important consequences of heat recovery systems, their primary function is to leverage waste heat to fulfill thermal energy demands. This leads to a more sustainable and economical use of energy resources.