Energy costs for heat and power represent major operating costs for abattoirs. These costs have increased more than the consumer price index (CPI) in recent years and are expected to increase further in coming years. Cogeneration (or CHP, combined production of heat and power) is increasingly seen by the meat processing industry as a way of improving energy efficiency, and thus reducing costs and also greenhouse gas emissions. MLA and AMPC have investigated cogeneration on several occasions over recent years, with a number of reports prepared on its various aspects.

This project has reviewed several different sizes and configurations for cogeneration, combining data from experiences vendors with operating conditions for a typical meatworks. Cost benefit analysis has been used to assess commercial viability.