The MCA was incorporated in 1984 to promote a greater public understanding of cogeneration and independent power production, plus works to improve general business conditions in the industry.  The organization strives to provide pertinent information for its members, as well as to conduct research, publish reports and hold various seminars and workshops with the goal to advance the concept of cogeneration throughout the Midwest.  The area covered by the MCA includes the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

While operation of the MCA is centered in the Chicagoland area, outreach to the other member states through the years has included reporting on state and local legislative and regulatory issues.

Through the years the MCA has been a catalyst for industry networking through regular evening meetings, usually 3 times per year and, as market developments present themselves, day long conferences.  For over 20 years the MCA has hosted an annual golf outing to allow members and guests the opportunity to gather and network in a more relaxed and comfortable environment.

The MCA routinely provides case studies of operating cogeneration facilities which often includes a tour of the subject facility.  This allows members a more “hands on” experience of the cogeneration industry.  In the past cogeneration site tours have included a waste water treatment plant in Rockford, IL; a medical campus in suburban Chicago, an exposition complex in Chicago, and several manufacturing facilities in suburban Chicago.