Assessment of the Potential Cumulative Benefits of Applying Utility-based Cogeneration in Ontario

Significant reductions in annual and cumulative energy use and associated environmental emissions are predicted in Ontario, during the period 1989 to 2010, through utility-based cogeneration using the facilities of the provincial electrical utility. Six scenarios are considered, where utility-based cogeneration satisfies minor or major portions of the heat demands of the residential-commercial and/or industrial sectors. It is concluded that more extensive utility-based cogeneration in Ontario would likely be beneficial, and that further study of the province's options for utility-based cogeneration, and the appropriate implementation of the most beneficial option, appears to be justified.