Combined Heat and Power: Applications and Possible Obsolescence versus Other Alternatives

Technologies used to meet the heat demands of the residential and industrial sectors are evaluated. An analysis based on the second law of thermodynamics using the heating coefficient, showed that cogeneration systems, considered to be clean energy, are becoming obsolete. Heat pumps, though currently not popular, could potentially be good alternatives for heating while complementing the transition to renewable energy. Traditional energy systems have been developed to meet the needs of the consumer, prioritizing the cost savings. A thorough analysis of primary energy consumption is required because burning fossil fuels contributes to additional costs of climate change.