Cogeneration for ultra-high-efficiency

Cogeneration or combined heat and power (CHP) is the use of a heat engine or power station to generate electricity and useful heat at the same time. Because of the combined generation of electricity and steam at our refineries, our production facilities achieve an ultra-high-efficiency rating.

ExxonMobil has built more than 100 cogeneration units all over the world. Our refineries in Antwerp and Rotterdam also have their own combined heating and power station or Cogen.

The ultra-high-efficiency Cogen at our Antwerp refinery went on line in 2009. With a total power output capacity of 130 Megawatts, the unit produces more electricity than the total requirement of the refinery and the two polymer production plants in Meerhout and Zwijndrecht.

The Cogen not only produces electricity and steam, but also heats approximately 50 per cent of the mineral oil from which the refinery products are made. The smart use of generated heat ensures high energy efficiency and therefore results in a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions.

Related content

Integration: significant energy savings and cost reductions

Integration: significant energy savings and cost reductions

Many of our chemical plants are integrated with the refinery, which leads to significant energy savings and cost reductions.
Avoiding 6 million metric tons per year of greenhouse gas emissions through cogeneration

Avoiding 6 million metric tons per year of greenhouse gas emissions through cogeneration

ExxonMobil is developing innovative ways to generate power more efficiently and with less environmental impact compared with purchasing electricity from a local utility.