May 2011: The International Energy Agency (IEA) has published a report titled “Co-Generation and Renewables: Solutions for a Low-Carbon Energy Future,” which discusses using renewables together with combined heat and power (CHP) as a proven, cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for delivering electricity and heat.

The paper aims to be a “one-stop shop” for policymakers looking for information on co-generation, renewables and synergies between the two. It contains sections on: economic and environmental benefits of co-generation and renewables; renewable co-generation technologies; and co-generation and variable renewable electricity production. The main recommendation of the report is that a greater level of policy attention for renewable heat is needed, which should focus on looking for ways to better allocate and distribute the additional costs of renewable heating, incentivizing its use. [Executive Summary] [Publication: Co-Generation and Renewables: Solutions for a Low-Carbon Energy Future] [Press release]