Combined heat and power (CHP) is a method of simultaneously generating power (usually electricity) and usable heat in a single process. This is sometimes also termed ‘co-generation’.

The most common large-scale process is usually based around a combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT). The heat generated in the process is utilised via suitable heat recovery equipment for a variety of purposes including industrial processes, community heating and space heating.

CHP can provide a secure and highly efficient method of generating electricity and heat at the point of use. The utilisation of heat from electricity generation and the avoidance of transmission losses because electricity is generated on site, means that CHP typically achieves a 35 per cent reduction in primary energy usage compared with power stations and heat-only boilers.

More detailed information on CHP can be found at the Combined Heat and Power Association website at: www.chpa.co.uk/