Cogeneration is the simultaneous production of thermal energy and mechanical / electrical energy from the use of a single fuel. This makes use of fuel cogeneration plants, that are not only superior economically but also ecologically, as it promotes greater use of the energy content of fuels.

The need to rationalize the use of fuel and reduce emissions of pollutants has stimulated the search for more efficient thermal systems. The most part of  energy contained in fuel is lost to the environment as heat and radiation, even in the most modern thermal machines. The irreversibilities generated by physical and technological limitations do not allow a higher efficiency. Therefore in a thermal cycle only between 25% and 40% of the energy potential of fuel are turned into electricity or heat for a process, the rest of the fuel energy is wasted.

Using cogeneration is possible to achieve energy efficiencies of 80% or more, something far beyond what a conventional power plant can provide.

In addition, many industries and commercial buildings need not only a great demand for electricity but also heat and / or cold, characterizing a perfect application for the application of cogeneration, since it use the heat rejected in a main process to supply energy for secondary systems. The advantage of this solution is that the consumer gets their energy needs and saves fuel, since about 80% of the fuel energy is used effectively.