Gas Engines - Cogeneration Solutions

Cogeneration systems—also called combined heat and power (CHP) systems—are designed to generate both heat and power. GE’s Jenbacher CHP systems use waste heat accrued during an engines operation to generate overall plant efficiencies of more than 90 percent. This efficient and economical method of energy conversion achieves primary energy savings of roughly 40 percent by using a gas engine cogeneration system instead of separate power and heat generation equipment. Transportation and distribution losses also are reduced or eliminated as the decentralized energy supply is aligned where it is needed.

How it works

The basic structure of GE’s Jenbacher CHP systems includes an engine/generator unit and heat exchangers that make use of waste heat. A wide range of heat sources—from engine cooling water and oil to an air/fuel gas mixture and exhaust gas—is configured to maximize the benefit to each individual customer.

Cogeneration systems can be supplemented with a boiler system for bridging peak heat demand periods. An increase in system operating time and efficiency is made possible by the connection of a heat storage medium.

Power plant electrical switch and control systems distribute electricity and manage the engine, while hydraulic equipment ensures heat distribution. Generated power is used by a facility or fed into the public power grid.


The thermal energy can be used to generate heating water and steam production as well as for various types of process heat.

Gas engine cogeneration systems also are used for CO2 fertilization in greenhouses and trigeneration systems (combined generation

Features & Benefits

  • Cogeneration systems generate both heat and power
  • GE’s Jenbacher CHP systems use waste heat from various sources to increase plant efficiency by up to 90 percent
  • Cogeneration achieves 40 percent energy savings vs. separate power and heat generation equipment
  • Reduces or eliminates transportation and distribution losses
  • Addition of boiler system or other heat storage medium further increases operating time and efficiency
  • Generated power is used by an individual facility or fed into a public power grid
  • Thermal energy can be used to generate heating water and steam production, as well as for various types of process heat
  • Cogeneration systems also can be used for CO2 fertilization in greenhouses and trigeneration systems.

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