Rational Use of Energy

The Energy Conversion

In production and utilization processes part of the primary energy is "lost, du to thermodynamics laws. Due to such reason every process is given an associated factor, named "efficiency".
The less are the primary energy losses, and higher is the efficiency.

The heat production is made upon the primary chemical energy content in the fuels (oil, coal, natural gas, etc) through an efficiency figure rating from 65 to 70% (statistical yearly average).
On the other side, when fuel is converted into electric power, the quality of the obtained energy is very good, while the process efficiency is low: from 30 to 40%.

Cogeneration, that is the Combined Production of Heat and Power through a single system in cascade, joins the two transformations, producing good electric power and heat at a time, with overall efficiencies even upper than 90%.

Every car, in winter, is used like a cogenerator: part of the resulting mechanical power available at the shaft is sent, through transmission belts, to a small alternator, that produces electric power and keeps the car battery in charge.

Part of the heat coming from the engine, that in summer is completely blown out from the system radiator/electric fan, in winter, on the contrary, is utilized for heating the car inside.

The cogeneration of heat and electricity is based upon the same basis. It is enough for the car wheels being replaced by an electric generator, while all of the heat from the engine is recovered through a heat exchangers system.

At the same useful energy services for the end user, lower results the amount of needed fuel, with obvious advantages for the environment.

COGENEUROPE Association estimates that each kWh in electricity produced through CHP can save carbon dioxide emissions in atmosphere equivalent to 450 grams, with indiscussed environmental benefits.