Campus Heat

The University of Connecticut is focusing on cogeneration, also called combined heat and power. It is the production of more than one useful form of energy—both heat and electric power—from a single energy source, such as the burning of natural gas or some other fuel. The cogeneration plant has been designed to blend seamlessly into the campus landscape. Cogeneration uses one measure of gas twice—first for generating electricity, then to produce steam. A financial study done by consultants during the plant's planning phase shows definite savings over the long run, especially since the cost of electricity can be expected to vary with the cost of natural gas in New England.