Tri-generation is combined, simultaneous production of three forms of energy from the only one fuel input.
Tri-generation represents one of the most effective energy utilisations. Compared with the separate production of heat and electricity tri-generation can be up to three times more efficient- total efficiency can reach up to 90%. Compared to traditional coal-based electricity generation efficiencies of around 40-50%, tri-generation represents a much more efficient method of fulfilling energy needs. Using natural gas as a fuel source typically a tri-gen system generates hot water for heating, chilled water for cooling and electricity for selling to the grid or load shedding of the connected area consumption.
Apart from reducing costs for input energy, some other benefits of tri-generation include:
- Reducing peak demand of electricity
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
- No harmful substances for cooling – chilled water distribution
- On-site energy production – reducing the load of the distribution network
- Reduction of a building‘s impact on the environment