Combined heat and power (CHP ) is a collective term for the generation of electricity and heat in a system. Compared to conventional power plants for electricity only , where the heat produced is not utilized , the CHP provides significant efficiency improvements . There are various techniques for generating coupled with various application areas including itself vary with temperature and system size. Centralized CHP systems are used in conjunction with district heating networks or for heat supply (eg from major urban areas ) , whereas smaller mini-or micro -CHP systems are suitable for individual buildings .

Combined heat and power generation is the simultaneous conversion of input energy into electrical energy and useful heat in a stationary plant.

According to the law for the maintenance, modernization and expansion of combined heat and power generation ( combined heat and power law - Control Act ) , 19.3.2002, last Changed . by Act of 12.7.2012 (Federal Law Gazette I p 1494) , the purpose of the law, in the interest of energy conservation , environmental protection and the achievement of climate change objectives of the federal government to contribute to the increase in electricity generation from combined heat and power in the Federal Republic of Germany to 25 percent by 2020 by promoting the modernization and construction of new combined heat and power (CHP ) systems , supporting the market introduction of fuel cells and the promotion of new and expansion of heating and cooling networks, and the New to make and expansion of heat and cold storage , is fed into the heating or cooling from CHP plants ( § 1KWKG ) .