Cogeneration systems with an IC engine connected to a HRWH can obtain good efficiency in _____ systems.

Cogeneration systems that utilize an internal combustion (IC) engine connected to a heat recovery water heater (HRWH) are particularly well-suited for small industry applications due to their ability to efficiently generate both electricity and useful heat. These systems take advantage of the waste heat produced by the IC engine during electricity generation, which is then captured and repurposed for heating, thereby increasing overall system efficiency.

In small industrial settings, there is often a consistent demand for both electrical power and heat, making cogeneration an effective solution. The efficiency of these systems is maximized when the heat generated complements the heating requirements of the industry, leading to reduced energy costs and a lower carbon footprint.

In contrast, heavy industry may have different energy demands that can exceed the capacity or efficiency of a small cogeneration system, while normal households typically do not have the scale or intensity of energy needs for such systems to be economically viable. Small air conditioning systems generally do not align with the cogeneration model since their main focus is on cooling rather than combined heat and power generation. Thus, small industry represents the optimal application for these types of cogeneration systems.