The factors that govern the selection of cogeneration system for an industry: The factors that govern the selection of cogeneration systems are very much site/situation specific. The local factors such as the thermal energy requirements etc play an important role. Also the availability of the relevant opportunities and other related items decide the selection. They are broadly as follows:
1) Base electrical load matching: The co-generation system is designed to meet the minimum electricity demand. The remaining power required is purchased from the utility grid.
2) Base thermal load matching: The co-generation system is designed to supply the minimum thermal energy requirement. Stand by boilers/ burners are used if the demand for heat is higher.
3) Electrical load matching: This is stand alone system. The co-generation system is designed such that total electricity required is generated. Therefore this co-generation system is totally independent of the electricity utility grid. Sometimes if energy demand is higher, auxiliary boilers are used.
4) Thermal load matching:- The co-generation system is designed such that the total heat energy require is generated. If required energy demand is higher electricity purchased from grid.