See discussions, stats, and author profiles for this publication at: https://www.researchgate.

net/publication/339875207

Power Plant Economic

Chapter · March 2020

CITATIONS READS

0 5,377

4 authors, including:

Djamal Hissein Didane Amir Khalid

Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia
97 PUBLICATIONS 715 CITATIONS 219 PUBLICATIONS 1,453 CITATIONS

SEE PROFILE SEE PROFILE

Some of the authors of this publication are also working on these related projects:

Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Development View project

45 kWp Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Solar System Installation In Kajang Vocational College View project

All content following this page was uploaded by Djamal Hissein Didane on 12 March 2020.

The user has requested enhancement of the downloaded file.

Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5

CHAPTER 8

Power Plant Economic

Azim Isha Mudin1, Hafiz Aizat Ali1, Djamal Hissein Didane1, Amir Khalid2
1
Centre for Energy and Industrial Environment Studies (CEIES), Faculty of
Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia,
Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, 86400 Johor, Malaysia.
2
Automotive and Combustion Synergies Technology Group, Faculty of Engineering
Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, 84600 Pagoh, Johor, Malaysia

Abstract
This work intends to assess the economics of thermal energy includes load duration-cost for
produce electricity, factor to identify the location of power plant economic issue such as fuel
source and the overall performance and operation property. Load curve showing the variation
of power with time. It illustrates the value of a specific load for each unit of the period covered.
By studying the load cost, we can identify the base load that load under which the demand never
falls and must be delivered 100% of the time to the customer. The location of the thermal power
plant is typically established by the availability of water and the water head must which is used.
For nuclear energy plant, two added factors are considered, which are the density of human
population in the area and threat from earthquakes. The greatest power plant should supply a
dependable supply of electrical energy at a bare minimum cost to the consumer.
1.1 Introduction to thermal power plant
A power plant is a system or even can be an assemblage of machines that produces and also
provides a stream of mechanical or electrical power. “The power generator is a significant
equipment to produce electrical energy. Electrical energy is generated by linking it to a prime
mover runs the power generator. The type of plants is established by the type of primary mover.
Energy plants such as Nuclear Energy Plants, Steam Energy Plant, Natural gas Turbine and
Diesel-powered Power Plant are known as thermal power plant as they convert heat into electric
energy. A thermal power station is a power station which burns chemical combustibles to
produce electricity. Fossil fuel, natural gas, and crude oil, as associates of fossil fuels, are the
mainly used energy sources. Biomass, biogas and liquefied biofuels, as associates of alternative
power sources, complete the household” [1].

Figure 8.1: Taichung thermal power station (Taiwan) [1].

Series 1 Page 123
© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
Three sequenced actions are undertaken for the power conversion process by thermal energy
station. At first, the chemical substance energy of a combustible is altered right into heat. Then,
the heat is converted into mechanical energy, which then is turned into electrical energy in the
third action. Heat is generated for the duration of burning processes in a central heating boiler,
burning chamber or fuel cell. In the certain form of revolving machine, mechanical power is
converted from heat during gas expansion. This, then triggers an electrical power generator and
electrical power is produced. The revolving machine can be a steam turbine, a gas turbine, or a
piston power plant.

Figure 8.2: Diagram of energy conversation in Thermal Plant.

Thermal energy plants with steam generators are usually developed on a sizeable scale and for
constant operations to deliver the base load. “Energy stations with gas turbines are used as rapid
response units for peaking. Power plants with combustion engines and fuel cells are typically
compact units for localized supply or cogeneration. Thermal plants commonly provide the
majority of of-of generated electrical energy.
Practically accessible fuels and long-time well-developed technologies are the key merits of the
thermal plants. Waste heat leftover due to the limited efficiency of the actual thermodynamic
process is released right to the environment (ecosystem, cooling water from river, lake or ocean,
evaporated water from cooling systems, etc.). From the combustion of fossil fuels, flue gas is
released straight to the environment and is made up of gas contaminants (such as nitrogen,
sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides), solid pollutants like fly ash, co2 and water vapour. Particulate
matter can be harmful and have damaging health effects (irritation of tiny airways, bronchial
asthma, persistent bronchitis, airway obstructions, respiratory and cardiac mortality, etc.).
Additionally, sulphur oxides and nitrogen react with moisture found in the atmosphere which
produces acidic chemical compounds like nitric and sulphurous acid that result in acid rains.
Carbon dioxide and water vapour are considered one of the major contributing factors to the
greenhouse effect. Also, some radioactive isotopes such as uranium or thorium and some heavy
metals such as mercury can be traced in the flue gas and increase pollution and radiation.
Massive landscape devastation indenting extraction and transfer of combustibles backed with a
large volume of solid wastes from burning (ash, cinder, etc.) are the next significant challenges”
[2]. Apart from that, the total efficiency is rather low - in most cases, about 30 - 40% [3].

1.2 General Thermal Power Layout and Operation

Figure 8.3 demonstrates the common configuration of thermal energy, which comprises of a
few basic elements for the actual thermal energy plant that uses nowadays. Subsequently, the
figure 8.4 presents the diagram is the structure of a simplified thermal power plant, and below
is also a diagram of a thermal energy plant.

Series 1 Page 124

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5

Figure 8.3: General Layout of thermal power plant [4].

Figure 8.4 Diagram of thermal power plant [4].

1.3 The general main circuit in thermal power plant

Every power plant has its distinctive features and characteristics; however, “in general there are
some attributes which are found in all thermal power plants. This article will feature the overall
layout of a common power plant. Generally, a thermal power plant is composed of four essential
circuits namely, Coal & Ash Circuit, Air & Gas Circuit, Feed Water & Steam Circuit, and
Cooling Water Circuit” [4].

Series 1 Page 125

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
1.3.1 Coal & Ash Circuit
Its main function is to feed the central heating boiler with coal for combustion and to take care
of the ash that is created during the combustion process. Additionally, it includes tools and
paraphernalia, which is used to handle the transference plus storage of fossil fuel and ash.
1.3.2 Air & Gas Circuit
“As air is regarded as one of the major elements of the fire triangle, therefore, mandatory for
combustion. Since loads of coal is burnt inside the boiler, a sufficient quantity of air is
important. Therefore, the air is provided either through an enforced draught or induced draught
fans. The gases from combustion are utilized to heat the air (ongoing) with the aid of a heat
exchanger before to let it off in the atmosphere. The machines that manage all these operations
come under this circuit” [3]
1.3.3 Feed Water & Steam Circuit
This circuit can provide the steam created from the boiler to the turbines plus manages the
outgoing steam from turbine by making it cool so that water can be created. This water can be
used again in the boiler and making good any losses because of evaporation.
1.3.4 Cooling Water Circuit
This circuit handles the cooling down water. This part of the thermal energy plant deals with
handling of the cooling water necessary in the system. As the quantity of water needed to cool
the outgoing steam from the boiler is substantial, the water either obtained from a nearby water
source such as a river, or it is carried out through evaporation if the amount of cooling water
available is restricted.
1.4 Main components of thermal power plant
A thermal power plant fundamentally operates on Rankine routine. Figure 8.5 shows the basic
thermal power plant by coal and its primary components.

Figure 8.5: The simplest arrangement of Coal (Thermal) power plant and it component.

Series 1 Page 126

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
1.4.1 Coal conveyor
It is a belt type of configuration. With the aid of this coal is transferred from coal storage area
in power plant to the close by boiler area.

1.4.2 Stoker
The coal that has been brought in close by boiler has to be put in the boiler furnace for
combustion. The stoker is a mechanised device for loading coal to a furnace.

1.4.3 Pulveriser
After coal is pulverized, it is placed in the boiler. Pulveriser is the equipment that is utilized to
grind the coal for combustion in a furnace in an energy plant. There are two kinds of pulverisers
specifically, Ball and Tube-Ball mill and Ring -Ball.

1.4.3.1 Ball and Tube Mill Ball mill

It comprises of a horizontal revolving cylinder which is roughly three diameters in length and
includes a charge of tumbling or cascading steel balls, small stones, or rods. About five
diameters in length, Tube mill is a turning cylinder which usually is employed for fine
pulverization of ore, rock, and other such components; the material which is combined with
water, is carried out into the chamber from one end and moves out the other end as slime.

1.4.3.2 Ring and Ball

“It features two rings that are divided by a sequence of large balls. There is a lower ring which
revolves, while there is an upper ring that pushes down on the balls by a set of spring plus
adjuster assemblies. Coal is placed in the middle or side of the pulveriser, which relies on the
design. Then it is ground as the lower ring revolves causing the balls to orbit among the upper
and lower rings. Coal is then transported out of the mill by the circulation of air moving through
it. The dimension of the coal particles launched from the grinding section of the mill is identified
by a classifier separator. These mills are typically developed by (Babcock and Wilcox)” [5].

1.4.4 Boiler
The pulverized coal is ready to be placed in boiler furnace. The boiler is a closed vessel that
heats the water and circulates until the water transforms into steam at the necessary pressure.
“Coal burns up inside the combustion chamber of the boiler. The products are created of
combustion are just gases. Since the released gases are at high temperature, they vaporize the
water within the boiler to steam. These gases at high heat can vaporize the water inside the
boiler to steam. At occasions the steam is more heated in a superheated as greater the pressure
of steam and temperature, greater the efficiency the engine will have to transform the heat to
steam and then to mechanical work. The steam at high pressure and temperature is directly
utilized as a heating medium, or as the working fluid in a primary mover to transform thermal
energy to mechanical work, which could be transferred to electrical energy. Though several
other fluids are at times used for these applications, water is the most popular due to its economy
and suitable thermodynamic characteristics”.

Series 1 Page 127

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
1.4.4.1 Fire tube Boilers

Figure 8.6: Fire Tube Boiler.

“Boilers are classified as fire tube boilers: Fire tube central heating boiler is responsible for
passing the very hot gases through tubes. These tubes are encircled by water. These are
straightforward, compact, and durable in construction. The tube boilers are even further sorted
as horizontal and vertical tube boilers, based mostly on whether they are vertical or horizontal.
Here, the volume of water is more and due to which inadequate the circulation. So, the steam
requirement cannot be fulfilled rapidly. The maximum pressure that can be accomplished is
about 17.5kg/sq cm. Therefore, high steam pressure is not feasible. Due to the fact of the large
volume of water in the drain, it needs more duration to raise the steam. The steam attained is
typically wet, economical for low pressures. The output of the boiler is also constrained” [8].

1.4.4.2 Water tube Boilers

Figure 8.7: Water tube boiler.

Series 1 Page 128

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
Water tube boilers: Water in these boilers is inside of the tubes and hot gases are outside the
tubes. They are made up of drums and tubes. “They could possibly consist of any number of
drums (you can see 2 drums in fig). Feed water goes in the boiler to one drum (below it is drum
below the boiler). The water then flows through the tubes which are linked externally to drums.
Hot gases encircling the tubes will convert the water in the tubes into steam. The generated
steam then passes via tubes and is gathered at the top of the drum as a result of its light-weight.
Consequently, the upper drum stores the steam and water. This entire steam is gathered in a
single drum and then removed. Because of the rapid flow of water in water tubes, the level of
transference of heat gets high which leads to greater efficiency. They generate high pressure,
readily accessible and can react quickly to variations in steam need. They are also grouped as
vertical, horizontal and inclined tube conditional to the placement of the tubes. They have
reduced weight and are much less likely to explode. By utilizing a high number of tubes, Large
heating surfaces can be acquired. The pressure can be attained as high as 125 kg/sq cm and
temperatures from 315 to 575 centigrade” [5].

1.4.5 Super heater

Generally, the contemporary boilers possess superheated and reheated set up. Superheated is an
aspect of a steam-generating unit. Once the steam lefts boiler drum, it is heated over its
saturation temperature in superheated. What level of superheat should be included to the steam
is dependent upon the location, set up, and size of superheated surface installed and also the
rating of the boiler? The superheated might have a number of than one phases of tube banks
arranged to efficiently exchange heat from the products of combustion.
Superheats are classified as convection, radiant or combination of these.

1.4.6 Preheater
“A certain quantity of heat of superheated steam is used for the spinning of turbine that is why
a few of its energy is dissipated here. Reheater is identified as steam boiler element in which
heat is added into this intermediate-pressure steam, which offers given up some of its power in
extension via the high-pressure generator. The reheated steam is then used to turn the next steam
turbine (see Layout fig) here the heat is converted to mechanical power. The converted
mechanical power is used to operate the alternator. It is connected to turbine and subsequently
electrical power is produced” [5].

1.4.7 Condenser
“The steam flows to condenser after turning steam turbine. Condenser is known as the shell and
tube heat exchanger (or surface condenser) fitted at the outlet of each steam turbine in Thermal
power stations of energy suppliers typically. The condensers swap the heat that converts steam
from its gaseous to its fluid state, this is also named phase transition. Therefore, the latent
temperature of steam is given out within the condenser. Regardless of where water is restricted
an air-cooled condenser is generally used. Nevertheless, an air-cooled condenser is significantly
expensive and cannot obtain as low a steam turbine backpressure (hence, less efficient) as a
surface condenser” [5].

1.4.8 Cooling Towers

The water generated in the condenser right after condensation comes with high temperature at
first phase. “The hot water is proceeded to cooling towers. Chilling tower is a tower or building
where atmospheric air (the heat recipient) flows in direct or indirect exposure to warmer water
(the heat origin) consequently, the water is cooled down. It can be utilized as the heat sink in a
standard thermodynamic procedure, like refrigeration or steam power creation, also when it is
appropriate or required to create final heat rejection to atmospheric air. Water which acts as

Series 1 Page 129

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
heat-transfer fluid emits heat to atmospheric air, therefore cooled, is recirculated throughout the
system, giving economical operation of the system. Commonly, there are two fundamental
kinds of cooling towers that are utilized” [7].

Figure 8.8 cooling tower

1.4.8.1 Evaporative cooling towers

It is categorized in accordance with the means used for creating air circulation through them:
atmospheric, natural draft, and mechanical draft. Another exchange the heat from warmer water
too much cooler air by an effective heat-transfer process and is called the no evaporative or dry
cooling tower.

1.4.8.2 Non-evaporative cooling towers

It is categorized as air-cooled condensers and as air-cooled heat exchangers, and are also
classified by the means utilized for generating air flow through them. Occasionally, when a
couple of basic types are used together, with the two cooling procedures typically used in
parallel or independently, then they are known as wet-dry cooling towers. The performance of
cooling tower is assessed by the cooling of a particular quantity of water by a given range and
to a specified temperature method to the wet-bulb or dry-bulb temperature for which the tower
is developed. Since exact design factors are rarely encountered in operation, approximated
overall performance curves are frequently set for a certain installation, and provide a means for
analysing the measured performance with design factors.

1.4.9 Economizer
Flue gases that emerge of the boiler bring a considerable amount of heat. Economizer recovers
part of the heat existing in flue gases up the chimney. It utilizes the heat to heat up the feed
water to the boiler. “The positioning of economizer is in the passageway of flue gases, between
the entrances to the chimney and exit away from the boiler. The utilization of economizer
decreases coal consumption, raises the steaming level and produces high boiler efficiency.
Although, it requires additional investment, an increase in maintenance expenses and usually
requires floor area for the plant. It is used in each one of the contemporary plants. In
economizer, a great number of small diameter thin walled tubes are situated between two
headers. The feed water enters through one header and Feed water enters the tube via one header
and heads out through the other one. The circulation of flue gases outside the tubes is usually
in counter below” [7].

1.4.10 Air preheater

Air preheater is in charge of the utilization of the excess heat of flue gases. This system
exchanges heat found in steam boiler, from flue gases to the combustion air before the air gets
into the furnace. Air preheater can also be called an air heater; air-heating method. It’s not

Series 1 Page 130

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
displayed in the layout. Nevertheless, it’s held at a place near to where the air is supplied to the
boiler. Air preheater recovers the heat from the flue gas from the boiler, to ensure that boiler
efficiency is enhanced. It executes this task by burning warm air that rises combustion
efficiency as well as decreases the useful heat lost from the flue. As a result, the gases are
redirected to the chimney or stack at a lower temperature, allowing a straightforward design of
the ducting and stack. Air preheater also allows control over the temperature of gases that depart
from the stack (for example, for fulfilling emissions regulations). The flue gases pass to
electrostatic precipitator right after heat removal.

1.4.11 Electrostatic precipitator

“Electrostatic precipitator’s purpose is to get rid of dust or other finely segregated particles from
flue gases by charging the particles inductively with an electrical field, then simply drawing
them to a highly charged collector plates. It is also referred to as precipitator. It’s a process is
primarily based on two steps. At first, the suspension proceeds through an electrical discharge
(corona discharge) area. That's where ionization of gas occurs. The ions generated collide with
the suspended particles and confer to them an electrical charge. The charged particles move
toward an electrode of opposing sign and are deposited on the electrode where their electrical
charge is neutralized. This phenomenon is usually more properly designated as
electrodeposition from the gas phase. The practice of electrostatic precipitators has become
frequent in several industrial applications” [9].

1.4.12 Smoke stack

Chimney is a system to vent out hot flue gases/smoke from a boiler, stove, furnace or furnace
fireplace to the outdoors atmosphere. Generally, chimneys are nearly vertical to ensure that the
stream of hot gases is laminar, pulling air into the combustion via the chimney effect (which is
known as stack influence). A chimney offers space inside which is called a flu. Chimney can
be seen in buildings, steam train locomotives and cruise ships. Smokestack (colloquially, stack)
is a term also is intended for locomotive chimneys in the USA. Additionally, the term funnel is
often used for ship chimneys and at times intended for locomotive chimneys. Chimneys are
designed tall to enlarge their pull of air for combustion as well as to disperse contaminants in
the flue gases within a larger area so as to minimize the pollutant concentrations in compliance
with regulatory or various other restrictions.

1.4.13 Generator
“An alternator is an electromechanical device whose purpose is to convert mechanical energy
to alternating current electricity. Vast majority of alternators employ a revolving magnetic field.
Various geometries - for instance a linear alternator for use with sterling engines - can also be
used occasionally. Primarily, any AC power generator is referred to as an alternator,
nevertheless, often the term relates to small rotating machines operated by automotive along
with other internal combustion engines”.

1.4.14 Transformers
Transformers is a device which is responsible for the transference of electric power from
alternating-current circuit to one or more other circuits, either raising (stepping up) or lowering
(stepping down) the voltage. Transformers are employed to minimize the line voltage to operate
low-voltage equipment (doorbells or toy electric trains) and also to bring up the voltage from
electric generators so that electric power can easily be transmitted over long distances. They
work by means of electromagnetic induction; current in the main coil induces current in the
supplementary coil. The secondary voltage is determined by multiplying the primary voltage
by the ratio of the number of turns in the secondary coil compared to that in the primary.

Series 1 Page 131

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5

1.5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Thermal power plant

“Thermal power plant or Steam energy plant is a generating station that transforms heat energy
of coal combustion into electrical power. Beneath are some merits and drawbacks of thermal
power plant” [9].

Advantages
1. The fuel utilized is fairly inexpensive.
2. The initial expense is much less in comparison to other generating plants.
3. It could be built anywhere irrespective of the presence of coal. As coal can be transported
to the building site of the plant by means of rail or road.
4. It does not necessitate the same amount of area in comparison to Hydro power plants.
5. Technology cost is not as substantial as diesel power plants.

Disadvantages
1. The natural environment gets contaminated because of the large generation of smoke and
fumes.
2. It is very expensive in operating cost in comparison to hydroelectric plants.

1.6 Problem Statement

Thermal power plant produces more than 80% of the overall electricity produced in the globe.
Fossil fuel, coal, fuel oil, natural gas are the power source and steam is the functioning fluid.
Steam also necessitate in many industries for process heat. When considering thermal power
plant and design the fundamental parameter need to be determined are the entire output power
sizing of the generating unit. For predicted the expected maximum load, one of the handiest
tools is the development of a hypothetical load curve. The place of thermal power plant is
typically predetermined by the accessibility to water for the cooling system yet there is plenty
of analysis are applied to systematically evaluate each site in connection the criteria. To meet
the preferred output of thermal power plant, the primary element of thermal power plants such
as boiler and condenser will be analysing their efficiency. It could be summarizing there are a
number of factors that need to be emphasized for sitting the power plant, overall performance
and operation characteristic, particular economic concern and load curves for electricity supply
to develop the thermal power plant in country.
1.7 Objective
There are quite a few objectives in this research state: -
a) To identify the total system of thermal power plant system and operation.
b) To clarify the power plant economic in depth, incorporate general economic problem,
load curves, sitting of power plant, station performance and operation characteristic and
specific economic energy problem.
1.8 Scope
The scopes of this research will be: -
a) All kinds of thermal power plant such as Steam Power Plant, Diesel Power Plant,
Gas Turbine Power Plant and Nuclear Power Plants will focus on their planning and
design include economical.
b) The data from the earlier report, report, and journal about the thermal power are
gathered to assess the economic in thermal power plant.

Series 1 Page 132

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
2.0 Research methodology

Start Research

Analyze the problem statement

and objective

Literature review

Find the data from previous juarnal,article and report.

Analyse the data onbtained

Result and Discussion

Conclusion and Recommendation

End of project

Figure 8.9: The flowchart of research methodology

Series 1 Page 133

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
2.1 Experiment Setup

Figure 8.10: Experimental setup for thermal power plant [6].

3.0 Results ad discussion

In this chapter, the analysis of the common economic issue, load curves, sitting power plant,
station performance and operation, and particular economic energy problem was dealing with
in in depth. The data also from article and our preceding report news will comprise to looks at
the problem for improvement.
3.1 General economic problem
Power plant design and system planning necessitate consideration of engineering design along
with economics. Mainly, engineers have an awareness of the importance of reliable design, but,
in many instances they are less aware of the demand for cost-effective design. In this segment,
cost minimization will be reviewed from the perception of the governed utility, government
regulators, nonutility generators, and the designer or engineer.
3.1.1 Power sector issues: Problem not of coal supply, but of demand from thermal plant
As a result of the previous report in figure 8.11, it indicates that the thermal power plant issue
with coal supply is raised when supply of electrical power evolved into demand in country. To
Series 1 Page 134
© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
put it differently, the power sector's issue, that was earlier one of coal supply, has already
transformed into a problem of demand. The state electricity panels which are the sector's
primary customers are not able to easily afford power.

Figure 8.11: Problem demand on coal supply for thermal power plant [7].
3.1.2 Economic in plant selection
“A power plant has to be reliable. Power plant’s total capacity is reliant on the power need.
Moreover, its capacity needs to be more than forecasted maximum demand. The desirable
number of generation units is a couple or more than two and number of generating units has to
be so selected that the plant total capacity can be utilized efficiently. Large size units operating
at high load factor currently have considerably low generating expenses. However, the unit
must be managed near its level of maximum economy for most of the time by means of a proper
load sharing programmer. Having abnormal stand by increasing the size of the capital
investment in addition to raising the total cost of generation” [11].
The efficiency of thermal and running cost of a steam power plant relies on the steam
circumstances for example throttle pressure and temperature. Boiler performance is maximum
at rated capacity. Boiler setup with heat retrieving devices like air preheater, economizer etc.
gives results of the order of 90%. Even so, additional equipment cost (air preheater economizer)
has to be balanced as compared with the gain in operating cost. “The production of power can
be carried out at low cost from a hydropower plant whenever water is accessible in large
volumes. If the obtainable water quantity is low, then the capital cost per unit built would be
increased. When setting up a hydropower plant, the expense of water privilege, land and civil

Series 1 Page 135

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
engineering works must be taken under consideration simply because they have large capital
expenditure. Additionally, the cost of energy transmission lines as well as the decline of energy
in transmission are likewise factors that influence picking out hydropower plant. To plan,
design and build a hydro plant is hard and demands ample time.
Nuclear power plant ought to be installed within an area which has limited traditional power
resources” [8]. Furthermore, the place of nuclear power plant needs to be in an unpopulated
area or distant area so that the harm can be prevented in case of any kind of radioactive leakage
during an incident. Moreover, disposing of radioactive waste materials has to be easy, also there
ought to be a large quantity of water supply at the location. Nuclear energy becomes reasonably
competitive with typical coal-fired steam power plant over a unit size of 500 mW. The primary
cost of a nuclear power plant is greater than a steam power plant of equivalent size.
“In comparison with another plant of identical size, nuclear power plants do not need a lot of
os space. The routine maintenance cost of the plant is substantial. The diesel power plant could
be located at the load center effortlessly and its choice is dependent on thermodynamic factors.
The efficiency of engine gets better with compression ratio nevertheless, higher pressure
demands bulkier construction of equipment with more considerable cost. Gas turbine energy
plant and diesel power plants are regarded as appropriate for smaller outputs. Gas turbine plant
offers relatively lower cost, but, it raises as the sample plant is transformed by incorporating
the equipment such as regenerator, reheater, and intercooler. The efficiency of the plant
increases by the addition of the previously mentioned equipment. In addition, the plant is very
beneficial for the areas where gaseous fuel is accessible in large portions.
To be able to meet the varying load, the prime movers and power generators have to act
relatively quickly to take up or shed load free of deviation of the voltage or frequency of the
system. Steam power plant calls for control for boilers as well as turbine. Control for boiler is
often manual or automated for feeding air and supplying water fuel etc. Boiler control demand
time to act and therefore, steam power plants cannot take up the varying load rapidly. Moreover,
for coping with variable load operations it’s crucial for the power station to include reserve
plant available to maintain reliability and continuity of power supply constantly. To supply
varying load combined working of power stations is inexpensive too”.

3.2 Load Duration Curves for thermal power plant

It’s a curve presenting the variation of power along with time. This indicates the value of a
certain load for each unit of the time period covered. The unit of time considered can be an
hour, days, weeks, months or years.

Figure 8.12: The dispatch curve demonstrates curtailment of coal and cycling of
combined cycle plants [9].

Series 1 Page 136

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
“Sophisticated accessibility for renewables and feed-in tariffs typically lead to fossil-fuelled
generation limiting output to accommodate wind and solar loads. This recurrent adjustment of
output is referred to as cycling. A U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
research revealed that higher penetrations of wind and solar-induced fossil-fuelled plants to
cycle more often figure 7.2 [12].
Basic cycle gas turbines have for the most part served as peaking units due to the fact they can
be initiated within minutes and ramped up and down swiftly to fulfil surges in demand or
unexpected changes in electrical system loads. They also possess lower efficiencies much less
than 40 percent and they also operate while electrical demand peaks and the cost of electricity
is high. With the rising demand for extra versatile power, a capacity which was designed for
constant, base load operation is oftentimes being used to offer load-following and even peaking
electric service. This is primarily accurate for combined cycle gas turbines (CCGTs) which in
turn react to changes in load much quicker than standard steam power plants”.
The cycling of CCGT plants has other concerns but, including increased thermal and
mechanical strain on plant parts and load turndown restrictions. The introduction of cycling
power plants at part load is a vital consideration for reducing power system emissions,
preserving efficiency, and making the most of operational flexibility. The load part technical
constraints and efficiency performance of combustion engines in contrast to gas turbines are
explained below.

Figure 8.13: Load curve for Coal consumption [10].

The load timeframe curve for 400 hours regarding type of fuel utilized in thermal power plant.
These are typically the priciest, such as the simple cycle combustion turbine (SCCT) which has
a lower efficiency rate than a combined cycle plant, and an expensive cost for fuel, and this
graph depicts it could run for only 300 hours per year. Conventional demand response
participants try to displace the demand for this kind of power plant. Beneath is a generic image
showing peak load minimization demand response taking part in the New England ISO market.
3.3 Sitting power plant station

Series 1 Page 137

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
A crucial phase in the development of a nuclear power venture is the site assessment of a
suitable site. The evaluation of this site is usually to determine the site-related layout input to
the Nuclear Power Plant [10]. The assessment of appropriate site is to guarantee adequate
protection of site staff, the community and the environment from the impact of the production
and operation of nuclear power plant. Typically, the analysis of steam power shall take into
account the next aspects:
i) Evaluation of site features influencing the plant health and safety;
ii) Consideration of developing natural and human-induced aspects for a forecasted
lifetime
iii) Consideration of possible influences by nearby hazard linked with terrain uses
iv) Examination of the potential risks involving external natural and human-induced
events;
v) Determination of the possible influence of the Steam power plant towards the natural
environment;
vi) Consideration of predicted human population growth in the vicinity of the site, and
unexpected emergency planning that takes those predictions into consideration.
vii) Consideration of overall nuclear total capacity in the suggested site.

3.3.1 Evaluation of site characteristics affecting the plant safety

Designs are assessed against appropriate safety targets, taking into consideration the
characteristics of the site, the pitfalls associated with external hazards, and the prospective
impact of the NPP on the surroundings. Where required, appropriate procedures shall be
undertaken to ensure that the overall risk always remains acceptably very low.

3.3.2 Consideration of evolving natural and human-induced factors for a projected

lifetime
The development of natural as well as human-induced aspects in the region that could have an
impact on security and safety are examined across a time period that showcases the forecasted
lifetime of the NPP, with the knowledge that various levels of assessment and monitoring apply
to the numerous phases of the plant lifetime.

3.3.3 Consideration of potential impacts by nearby hazard associated with land uses
The probable non-radiological effect of the plant, owing to chemical or thermal releases, and
the likelihood for explosion and the dispersal of chemical products need to be taken into account
in the site examination process.

3.3.4 Evaluation of hazards associated with external natural and human-induced Events
The planned site is evaluated with respect to the frequency and seriousness of external natural
and human-induced events that could affect the safety and security of the proposed nuclear
power plant. A systematic approach for identifying and assessing the hazards related to external
events, such as underlying basis, is developed, documented and executed.

3.3.5 Determining the potential impact of the NPPs on the environment

Characteristics of the environment in the region that could be impacted by potential radiological
effects in operational states and incident conditions shall be investigated. Almost all these
characteristics shall be recognized and monitored through the lifetime of the plant.

Series 1 Page 138

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
3.3.6 Consideration of projected population growth in the vicinity of the site and
emergency planning that takes those projections into account
For each planned site, the potential radiological impacts in functional states and in accident
circumstances on people in the region, such as impacts that could result in emergency measures,
shall be considered with due attention of the relevant factors, such as population distribution in
the area of the site.

3.3.7 Consideration of total nuclear capacity in the proposed site

The overall nuclear capability to be established on the site should be identified as far as
conceivable at the first stages of the siting process. In case it is proposed that the built nuclear
capacity be considerably increased to a level greater than that formerly determined to be
tolerable, the suitability of the site should be re-evaluated, as most appropriate.

3.4 Station performance and operation characteristic

To be able to meet the increasing demand for energy in industrial sectors, one of the goals is to
determine the technical support in enhancing their energy performance through extensive
energy audits, implementation support, technologies audits, and capacity building.

3.4.1 The purpose energy audit of thermal power plant [11-14]

An energy audit is an approach for determining energy losses, quantifying them, determining
preservation potential, evolving technological choices for conservation and assessing techno
economics for the methods suggested.
i) Assist industrial sectors in decreasing their energy utilization.
ii) To encourage energy-efficient technologies amongst industry groups.
iii) Disseminate information on energy efficiency by training courses and
workshops.
iv) To promote the convert of energy-efficient and environmental-sound
technologies to the industrial sectors in the context of climate change.

3.4.2 Comparison of Power Plant Component Efficiency for Boiler, Condenser and
Turbine.

Figure 8.14: Analysis for various efficiencies for plant running at various output values [15].

Series 1 Page 139

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
Figure 8.14 illustrates the Efficiencies comparison among the different plant output levels in
terms of Boiler , Turbine & Generator and Condenser Efficiency. From the analysis portion of
this work, it is deduced that the overall plant efficiency can vary with the variation or small
alteration in the output loads [16-18]. Based on experimental work carried out in above steps
indicates that since the output load is decreased the efficiency of total unit is reduced. Output
Load of the plant constantly relies upon the demands for consumption of energy. As the energy
usage declines, Plant must be starting to run at reduced load and the overall performance is also
reduced, due to the fact that energy cannot be stored. Alternatively, if the Plant or Unit can run
at Full Output load or 250 MW load the overall performance is greater.

3.5 Specific economic Energy problem

Commonly, a thermal power plant needs to provide a reliable supply of electricity at minimal
expense to the cusumer.to be able to attain, the cost of power generation should able be
decreased by; -
a) Choosing machines of longer lifetime and appropriate capacities.
b) Operating the power plant station at high factor load.
c) Improving the efficiency of thermal power plant.
d) Performing proper servicing of power plant equipment to prevent plant breakdown.
e) Maintaining proper administration, given that good supervision will be reflected in
lesser breakdowns and prolonged plant life.
f) Utilizing a plant of simple layout that does not need highly experienced personnel
(cost for a better steam engineer).
3.4.1 Construction cost for thermal power plant
“Construction cost predicted for new coal-fired power plants are usually much undefined and
have elevated considerably in recent years. The industry is making use of terms like “soaring,”,
“skyrocketing,” and “staggering” to describe the cost increases being experienced by coal plant
construction projects” [20-25].

3.5.1 Cost of AMP-Ohio’s (Coal power plant) proposed 960 MW coal-fired power plant

Figure 8.15: Duke Energy Carolinas Cliffside Project Cost Increases 2006-2007 ($/kW).

Series 1 Page 140

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
As displayed in Figure 8.15, the determined cost of AMP-Ohio’s consists of 960 MW coal-
fired power plant project almost increased twofold between May 2006 and January 2008. The
estimated cost elevated by 15 percent within six months between June 2007 and January 2008.
The estimated expense of the 960 MW plant is now at about $3 billion, without any financing
charges. This indicates a construction cost in excess of $3,100 per kW. And the accessible
evidence suggests that plant expenses will keep on rising.

3.5.2 Fuel cost for thermal power plant

The fuel usage relies on the total electrical energy produced. As load on the primary mover’s
grown, the fuel consumption rise and so does the cost. As a result, the cost of electricity
generation is the bare minimum at rated load and it more significant as load decreased. The cost
of fuel also is dependent on calorific value, availability and transportation.

Figure 8.16: Power Generation Costs by source (FY2006 average) [26].

“The average unit power generation expense for the FY2006-2010-time period for the
companies (J-Power is omitted for the geothermal) came 10.2 yen/kWh for thermal, 7.2
yen/kWh for nuclear and 8.9 yen/kWh for geothermal as seen in figure 8.16. The thermal power
generation by fossil fuel cost was the greatest amid them as well as geothermal and nuclear. It
pointed out that is world try to find various other energy sources for future studies. The cause
for the high cost is undoubtedly a fuel price surge associated with a crude oil price spike” [27-
30].
4.0 Conclusion and recommendation
This report evaluates economic of thermal power plant, it consists of sub-topics the general
economic issue, load curves, sitting power plant, station overall performance as well as
operating characteristics and also specific economic value. Based on earlier report and journals,
it demonstrates that the load curves for thermal power plant were higher particularly on peak
time where the usage of electricity was greater on the office hour. To sustain supply the
electricity, several thermal power plant companies are employing cogeneration, which is the
generation of electricity in-house alongside with industrial process steam. Based on curve load

Series 1 Page 141

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
figure, it indicates the base load which is below which the demand never falls, that is, the base
load has to be supplied 100% of all time by the power plant. In sitting thermal power plant, we
have to assess of appropriate site is to guarantee adequate protection of site staff, the general
public and the environment from the effect of the development and operation. With regard to
setting up nuclear power plant a couple of additional factors have to be considered which are
density of human population in the vicinity and threat from earthquake. We additionally must
analyze the overall performance of power plant station to able to provide the electrical power
to residential areas in country. Main aspects of power plant which include boiler and condenser
must be analyzed the effectiveness to ensure the power plant focus on the best performance. To
sum it up to the cost of fuel also lead to economy energy challenge in which the price of fuel
relies on its calorific value and transportation to supply the fuel.

REFERENCES

[1] Taiwan Energy Policy and Supply Demand Situation by Electricity from website
http://web3.moeaboe.gov.tw/ECW_WEBPAGE/webpage/book_en3/page7.htm.
[2] Pollution Prevention and Abatement handbook World Bank Group
Effective July 1998, Thermal Power: Guidelines for New Plants.
[3] Thermal Power: Guidelines for New Plants, Pollution Prevention and Abatement
Handbook World Bank Group Effective July 1998
[4] Thermal Power Plant Layout and Operation from website
http://powerelectrical.blogspot.com/2007/03/thermal-power-plant-layout-and.html.
[5] Recovery Boiler Reheat Steam Cycle by Babcock & Wilcox Power Generation Group,
Inc. Barberton, Ohio, U.S.A. Technical Paper BR-1830.
[6] Yoshimine Boilers water tube boiler, Solid Fuel Series.
[7] Power sector issues: Problem not of coal supply, but of demand from
Thermal plants from website http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2013-10-
06/news/42745677_1_coal-stocks-imported-coal-coal-supply
[8] Nuclear power - the problems from website
http://www.greenpeace.org.uk/nuclear/problems
[8] Combustion Engine vs. Gas Turbine: Part Load Efficiency and Flexibility from website
http://www.wartsila.com/en/power-plants/learning-center/overview/combustion-engine-vs-
gas-turbine-part-load-efficiency
[9] Conrad – Demand Response from website
http://www.smartgridoregon.org/Blog?mode=PostView&bmi=1223611
[10] Guideline for Site Evaluation for Nuclear Power Plant 22 Mac 2011 published by
Atomic Energy Licensing Board Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.
[11] Hatt, Roderick, M. & Lewis, W (2003), “Coal ash deposits in coal fired boilers” Energy
conservation of coal fired boilers, Vol. 14, Page No. 181-189.
[12] Raask, E Lo, K.L. & Song E, Z. M. (1969), “Tube Failures Occurring in the primary
super heaters and reheaters and in the economizers of coal fired boilers”, Energy Conservation
in Coal fired boilers, Vol.12,1969, Page No. 185.
[13] Rajan G.G. (2001), “Optimizing Energy efficiency in industries by Energy Loss
Control-models”, Chapter-14, Page No. 276.
[14] Dognlin, Chen James, D & Varies B.de (2001), “Review of current combustion,
technologies for burning pulverized coal”, Energy conservation in coal fired boilers Vol.48,
Page No. 121-131.
[15] Manjinder Bajwa and Piyush Gulati. Comparing the thermal power plant
Performance at various output loads by energy Auditing (a statistical analyzing
Tool) International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Technology (IJMET),

Series 1 Page 142

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5
ISSN 0976 – 6340(Print), Volume 2, Issue 2, M.
[16] Neal, P.W.Lo, K.L. (1980) “Conventional automatic control of boiler outlet steam
pressure” Energy Conservation in Coal fired boilers, Vol. 16, Page No. 91-98.
[17] Central Electricity Generating Board, “Modern Power Station Practice
(Operation & Efficiency),” Pergamon Press Oxford, New York. 2nd Edition, Volume-7.
[18] Pilat, J., Micheel P. A. (1969) “Source test Cascade impactor for measuring the size
ducts in boilers”, Energy Conservation in Coalfired boilers, Vol. 10, Page No.410-418.
[19] P.K.Nag “Power Plant Engineering” Tata McGraw-Hill Publishing Company
Limited New Delhi. 2nd Edition.
[20] Consulting Engineer’s Report for the American Municipal Power Generating
Station located in Meigs County, Ohio, for the Division of Cleveland Public Power, Burns and
Roe Enterprises, Inc., October 16, 2007, at page 11-1.
[21] The Future of Coal, Options for a Carbon-Constrained World, Massachusetts
Institute of Technology, 2007, at page 19.
[22] Letter to Hon. Edward J. Markey, Chairman, Select Committee on Energy
Independence and Global Warming, from Thomas R. Kuhn, Edison Electric
Institute, September 21, 2007, at page 4.
[23] Cost and Performance Baseline for Fossil Energy Plants, Revised August
2007,DOE/NETL – 2007/1281, at page 17.
[24] Verified Petition in Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission Cause No. 43114 IGCC-1,
filed on May 1, 2008, at pages 3-4.
[25] Direct Testimony of Charles J. Hookham on behalf of Wisconsin Power & Light
Company in Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Docket No. 6680-CE-170, June 2008,
at page 21.
[26] Yuhji Matsuo, Yu Nagatomi and Tomoko Murakami. Thermal and Nuclear Power
Generation Cost Estimation Using Corporate Financial Statements.IEEJ:2011October
[27] Subcommittee to study costs and other issue, electricity industry committee, Advisory
Committee for natural Resource and Energy, “Structure of overall backend business costs—
Analysis and assessment of profitability of entire nuclear power generation process” 2014
[28] University of Chicago, “The economic future of nuclear” 2014
[29] Massachusetts institute of technology, “The economic future of nuclear”2004
[30] US Congressional Budget Office, “Nuclear power’s role in Generating Electricity”
(2008).

Series 1 Page 143

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office
 Energy Management Series 1 | 2020
ISBN 978-967-2389-38-5

Series 1 Page 144

© Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia Publisher’s Office

View publication stats