A Mini-Packaged Gas Turbine Cogeneration Unit

The cogeneration process is the simultaneous production of electrical (or mechanical) power and heat, where the latter is a by-product of the power release process. In this investigation a mini-packaged gas turbine cogeneration unit is proposed for commercial and small industrial sectors. Its advantages are compared with those of a similar unit, but with a reciprocating engine as its prime mover. While the basic concept of co-generation is quite simple and attractive, the analysis of its financial viability is complex. Thus a simple procedure has been devised to assess the economic viability of the proposed mini package. It has revealed that a pay-back period shorter than four years can be achieved by employing such a unit.