Thermal Energy Power Stations: Thermal power stations are essential facilities where heat energy undergoes conversion into electrical energy. This process primarily occurs through the utilization of a steam-generating cycle. Here, heat is employed to boil water, generating high-pressure steam to propel a steam turbine connected to an electrical generator. The resulting low-pressure exhaust then enters a steam condenser, where it cools down to produce hot condensate. This condensate is recycled to sustain the heating process and generate more high-pressure steam, forming what is known as a Rankine cycle.
Varieties of Thermal Power Stations: The design and functionality of thermal power stations vary according to the energy source they are intended to utilize. These sources encompass fossil fuels, nuclear and geothermal power, solar energy, biofuels, and waste incineration. Thermal power stations may also be engineered to supply heat for industrial purposes, district heating, or the desalination of water, alongside their primary function of generating electrical power.
Utilization of Different Fuels: Various fuels, including natural gas and oil, can be directly combusted in gas turbines, either in open cycle configurations or more efficient combined cycle setups. Coal-fired power stations, petroleum, nuclear, geothermal, solar thermal electric, and waste incineration plants, as well as natural gas power stations, are categorized as thermal power stations. Waste heat from gas turbines can be harnessed by passing exhaust gas through a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) to produce steam, enhancing overall efficiency in combined cycle plants.
Characteristics of Power Stations: Commercial electric utility power stations are typically constructed on a large scale and designed for continuous operation. They commonly employ three-phase electrical generators to produce alternating current (AC) electric power at a frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz. Large companies or institutions may establish their power stations to cater to their heating or electricity needs, particularly if steam is already being generated for other purposes.
Role in Transportation and Cogeneration: Historically, steam-driven power stations have propelled most ships, with power being directly coupled to the ship’s propellers through gearboxes. Additionally, cogeneration plants, often referred to as combined heat and power (CHP) facilities, produce both electric power and heat for various applications, such as process heat or space heating, utilizing steam and hot water.
Maximizing Thermal Power Generation Efficiency:
Efficiency is a critical aspect of thermal power generation, determining the conversion of fuel into usable energy. Understanding the factors influencing efficiency is essential for optimizing power station performance.
Energy Efficiency Metrics: The efficiency of a thermal power station is quantified by the proportion of saleable energy produced relative to the heating value of the fuel consumed. For instance, simple cycle gas turbines typically achieve efficiencies ranging from 20% to 35%.
Factors Affecting Efficiency: The efficiency of power stations, like all heat engines, is constrained by thermodynamic laws. Increasing steam temperature, in accordance with Carnot efficiency, can enhance efficiency. Sub-critical pressure fossil fuel power stations generally achieve efficiencies of 36–40%, while supercritical designs push into the low to mid 40% range.
Advanced Reactor Designs: Nuclear power stations face limitations in temperature and pressure due to safety concerns, leading to efficiencies around 30–32%. However, advanced reactor designs aim to operate at temperatures and pressures akin to coal plants, potentially achieving comparable efficiencies.
Waste Heat Management: Unused thermal energy in power production must be dissipated as heat into the environment. This waste heat can be manageWikid through condensers or cooling towers. Alternatively, cogeneration utilizes waste heat for district heating, improving overall energy utilization.
Specialized Applications: Certain thermal power stations are integrated with desalination facilities, particularly in arid regions with abundant natural gas. In these setups, freshwater production and electricity generation are intertwined, highlighting the versatility of thermal power technologies.
Comparison with Other Power Generation Methods: While thermal power stations offer substantial efficiency, other methods such as hydropower and wind energy exhibit different efficiency limitations. Hydropower stations typically boast efficiency rates around 90%, while wind turbines are constrained by Betz’s law, achieving approximately 59.3% efficiency in ideal conditions.
Efficiency is paramount in thermal power generation, driving advancements in technology and operational practices. By continually improving efficiency metrics, thermal power stations contribute to sustainable energy production and resource utilization.
In summary, thermal power stations play a crucial role in meeting the world’s energy demands by efficiently converting heat energy into electrical power. Their versatility in utilizing various energy sources and their ability to produce both electricity and heat make them indispensable components of modern infrastructure.
Electricity Cost Considerations:
Direct Costs: The expenses of fuel, plant capital, labor, maintenance, and ash disposal affect electricity prices from thermal power stations.
Indirect Costs: Often overlooked are social and environmental costs, including impacts on health and the environment throughout the fuel cycle and plant decommissioning. These should be considered for comprehensive assessments.
Exploring Boiler and Steam Cycle:
Understanding the intricacies of boilers and steam cycles is fundamental in comprehending thermal power generation. This section delves into the components and processes involved in converting heat into electricity.
Nuclear and Industrial Applications: In the nuclear power domain, steam generators serve as crucial heat exchangers connecting primary and secondary systems, generating steam in pressurized water reactors (PWRs). Alternatively, in boiling water reactors (BWRs), water boils directly within the reactor core. Industrial settings may feature heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs) to produce steam from industrial processes or gas turbine exhaust.
Fuel Conversion to Steam: Boilers play a pivotal role in converting fuel heat into steam for driving turbines. These boilers must produce steam at high purity, pressure, and temperature to meet turbine requirements. Geothermal plants, however, skip boilers altogether, utilizing naturally occurring steam sources.
Boiler Configuration and Safety: A fossil fuel steam generator comprises essential components such as economizers, steam drums, and superheater coils. Safety valves are strategically placed to prevent boiler pressure from exceeding safe limits. Air and flue gas equipment, including fans and collectors, aid in efficient combustion and waste management.
Feed Water Heating: The feed water cycle involves purifying and heating water for the boiler. Water softeners and demineralization systems ensure high-quality makeup water. The cycle begins with condensate water, which is then pressurized, heated through feed water heaters, and purified in a deaerator before reaching the boiler.
Boiler Operation and Steam Generation: The boiler, resembling a large furnace, burns fuel to generate a fireball that heats circulating water. As water absorbs heat and transforms into steam, it is separated from water in the steam drum. Superheat pendant tubes elevate steam temperature before it enters the turbine. Gas turbine-based systems utilize heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs) to produce steam for the turbine.
Steam Condensing and Cooling: The condenser converts turbine exhaust steam back into liquid form for reuse. Surface condensers use cooling water circulated through tubes to achieve this, often operating under vacuum conditions for optimal efficiency. Cooling towers further lower cooling water temperature through evaporation.
Currently, there are 106 thermal power plants spread across India, collectively generating a total installed capacity of 221,802.59 MW.
Breaking down these plants, 53 utilize coal as fuel, 24 are powered by gas, 11 rely on oil, while nine employ a mix of fuels. Additionally, there are two plants harnessing renewable sources such as solar and biomass.
Among the states, Maharashtra leads with the highest installed capacity of 27,345.50 MW, followed closely by Tamil Nadu with 26,246.50 MW. Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka also feature prominently in the list of top states with significant thermal power capacity, boasting 24,986.25 MW, 21,825.00 MW, and 18,560.00 MW respectively.
List of Thermal Power Plants in India:
| State | Thermal Power Plant |
|---|---|
| Rajasthan | – Chhabra Thermal Power Plant |
| – Kalisindh Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Kota Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Suratgarh Super Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Barsingsar Thermal Power Station | |
| – Anta Thermal Power Station | |
| – Ramgarh Gas Thermal Power Station | |
| Punjab | – Rajpura Thermal Power Plant |
| – Ropar Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Lehra Mohabbat Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Bathinda Thermal Power Plant | |
| Bihar | – Barauni Thermal Power Station |
| – Patratu Thermal Power Station | |
| – Khalgaon Super Thermal Power Project | |
| Tamil Nadu | – Ennore Thermal Power Plant |
| – Mettur Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Neyveli Thermal Power Station | |
| – Tuticorin Thermal Power Station | |
| – IND Barath Thermal Power Plant | |
| Karnataka | – Raichur Thermal Power Station |
| – Bellary Thermal Power Station | |
| – Yermarus Thermal Power Station | |
| – Udupi Thermal Power Plant | |
| Maharashtra | – Amravati Thermal Power Plant |
| – Chandrapur Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Khaperkheda Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Tiroda Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Chandrapur Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Solapur Super Thermal Power Station | |
| – Mauda Super Thermal Power Plant | |
| Gujarat | – Gandhinagar Thermal Power Plant |
| – Mudra Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Sikka Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Ukai Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Wanakbori Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Akrimota Thermal Power Station | |
| – Kutch Lignite Thermal Power Station | |
| – Sabarmati Thermal Power Station | |
| Chhattisgarh | – Sipat Thermal Power Plant |
| – Lara Super Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Korba Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Bhilai Thermal Power Plant | |
| West Bengal | – Durgapur Thermal Power Plant |
| – Farakka Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Mejia Thermal Power Station | |
| – Kolaghat Thermal Power Station | |
| – Bakreshwar Thermal Power Station | |
| – Durgapur Steel Thermal Power Station | |
| – Budge Budge Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Sagardighi Thermal Power Station | |
| Odisha | – Hirakud Captive Thermal Power plant |
| – Jharsuguda Thermal Power plant | |
| – Talcher Thermal Power plant | |
| Madhya Pradesh | – Amarkantak Thermal Power Plant |
| – Satpura Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Sanjay Gandhi, Birsinghpur Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Shri Singaji Thermal Power Station Dongalia | |
| – Vindhyachal Thermal Power Station | |
| – Singrauli Super Thermal Power Station | |
| Uttar Pradesh | – Anpara Thermal Power Plant |
| – Dadri Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Feroz Gandhi Unchahar Thermal Power Plant | |
| – National Capital Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Obra Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Rihand Super Thermal Power Plant | |
| – Rosa Thermal Power Plant | |
| Jharkhand | – Bokaro Thermal Power Plant |
| – Patratu Thermal Power Plant | |
| Andhra Pradesh | – Ramagundam Thermal Power plant |
| – Simhadri Thermal Power plant | |
| Assam | – Namrup Thermal Power Plant |
Solar Energy in India:
India’s journey towards harnessing solar power has been marked by remarkable achievements and ambitious targets. With significant foreign investments and the establishment of numerous solar parks, India has emerged as a key player in the global solar energy arena.
However, challenges such as achieving geographical diversity in solar installations and addressing the resilience of a PV-dominated grid remain pertinent. This article explores India’s solar power trajectory, focusing on recent developments, challenges, and strategies to enhance solar energy utilization.
Historical Progress: India’s solar power journey began with modest targets, which were surpassed ahead of schedule. Subsequent revisions aimed at achieving 100 GW of solar capacity by 2022, with substantial investments earmarked for the sector. However, challenges such as the shortfall in rooftop solar installations underscore the need for concerted efforts to meet ambitious targets.
Current Landscape: India’s solar power landscape comprises both large-scale grid-connected projects and off-grid installations catering to local energy needs. Notably, the establishment of solar parks and initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) highlights India’s commitment to global solar energy collaboration.
Solar Potential and Resource Assessment: India boasts abundant solar potential, with ample sunlight throughout the year. Efforts to assess solar radiation and develop a comprehensive solar energy atlas demonstrate India’s commitment to maximizing solar energy utilization. The establishment of solar radiation resource assessment stations and ongoing research initiatives further contribute to understanding and harnessing solar resources effectively.
Challenges and Opportunities: Despite significant progress, challenges such as geographical concentration of solar capacity and grid resilience persist. Geographically diversifying solar installations and enhancing weather resilience are crucial to mitigating risks associated with a PV-dominated grid. Leveraging innovative strategies like the “One Sun One World One Grid” initiative can further enhance India’s solar energy footprint globally.
Here is the list of the top 10 major solar power parks in India with a brief description and additional facts:
| Sl.No | Solar Power Park in India | Description | Additional Facts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bhadla Solar Park, Rajasthan | One of the largest solar parks in India, located in Rajasthan. | Spread over 14,000 acres, it has a total capacity of over 2,245 MW. |
| 2 | Pavagada Solar Park, Karnataka | Situated in Karnataka, known for its vast expanse and high capacity. | Occupies 13,000 acres and has an installed capacity of 2,050 MW. |
| 3 | Kurnool Ultra Mega Solar Park, Andhra Pradesh | A major solar park contributing to Andhra Pradesh’s renewable energy goals. | Spread across 5,932 acres, it has a total capacity of 1,000 MW. |
| 4 | NP Kunta, Andhra Pradesh | Notable solar power project in Andhra Pradesh. | Occupies 5,000 acres and has an installed capacity of 1,000 MW. |
| 5 | Rewa Ultra Mega Solar, Madhya Pradesh | Significant solar park in Madhya Pradesh, aiding in clean energy production. | It supplies power to the Delhi Metro, among other entities. |
| 6 | Charanka Solar Park, Gujarat | Well-established solar park in Gujarat, pioneering solar energy in the state. | It was the first solar park in India to cross the 500 MW mark. |
| 7 | Kamuthi Solar Power Project, Tamil Nadu | One of the largest solar projects in Tamil Nadu, driving solar energy adoption. | Occupies 2,500 acres and has an installed capacity of 648 MW. |
| 8 | Ananthapuramu – II, Andhra Pradesh | Major solar park project in Andhra Pradesh. | Set up with an investment of over Rs. 7,000 crore. |
| 9 | Galiveedu solar park, Andhra Pradesh | Prominent solar park contributing to Andhra Pradesh’s green energy efforts. | Expected to generate over 800 million units of electricity annually. |
| 10 | Mandsaur Solar Farm, Madhya Pradesh | Notable solar farm in Madhya Pradesh, aiding in renewable energy production. | Part of India’s aim to achieve 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022. |
These solar power parks play a crucial role in India’s renewable energy sector, supporting the nation’s commitment to sustainable and clean energy sources.
List of solar energy in India:
| State | Solar Park | Capacity (MW) | Developer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andhra Pradesh | Ananthapuramu-I Solar Park | 1500 | AP Solar Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd. |
| Kurnool Solar Park | 1000 | ||
| Kadapa Solar Park | 1000 | ||
| Ananthapuramu-II Solar Park | 500 | ||
| Hybrid Solar Wind Park | 160 | ||
| Arunachal Pradesh | Lohit Solar Park | 20 | Arunachal Pradesh Energy Development Agency |
| Gujarat | Radhnesada Solar Park | 700 | Gujarat Power Corporation Limited |
| Harsad Solar Park | 350 | ||
| Dholera Solar Park Ph-I | 1000 | Solar Energy Corporation of India | |
| Dholera Solar Park Ph-II | 4000 | ||
| Himachal Pradesh | Kaza Solar Park | 1000 | JVC of SJVN & Govt of HP |
| Jharkhand | Floating Solar Park | 150 | Solar Energy Corporation of India |
| Karnataka | Pavagada Solar Park | 2000 | Karnataka Solar Power Development Corporation Pvt. Ltd. |
| Kerala | Kasargod Solar Park | 105 | Renewable Power Corporation of Kerala Limited |
| Madhya Pradesh | Rewa Solar Park | 750 | Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Limited |
| Mandsaur Solar Park | 250 | ||
| Neemuch | 500 | ||
| Agar | 550 | ||
| Shajapur | 450 | ||
| Omkareswar Floating Solar Park | 600 | ||
| Chhattarpur Solar Park | 950 | ||
| Barethi Solar Park | 550 | NTPC | |
| Maharashtra | Sai Guru Solar Park (Pragat) | 500 | M/s Sai Guru Mega Solar Park Pvt. Ltd. |
| Patoda Solar Park (Paramount) | 150 | M/s Paramount Solar Power Pvt. Ltd. | |
| Dondaicha Solar Park | 250 | Maharashtra State Electricity Generating Company Ltd. | |
| Manipur | Bukpi Solar Park | 20 | Manipur Tribal Development Corpn. Ltd. |
| Meghalaya | Solar park in Meghalaya | 20 | Meghalaya Power Generation Corporation Ltd |
| Mizoram | Vankal Solar Park | 20 | Power & Electricity Department |
| Odisha | Solar Park by NHPC | 40 | NHPC Limited |
| Solar Park by NHPC | 100 | NHPC Limited | |
| Rajasthan | Bhadla-II Solar Park | 680 | Rajasthan Solar Park Development Company Ltd. |
| Bhadla-III Solar Park | 1000 | M/s Surya Urja Company of Rajasthan Ltd | |
| Bhadla-IV Solar Park | 500 | M/s Adani Renewable Energy Park Rajasthan Limited | |
| Phalodi-Pokaran Solar Park | 750 | M/s Essel Surya Urja Company of Rajasthan Limited | |
| Fatehgarh Phase-1B Solar Park | 421 | M/s Adani Renewable Energy Park Rajasthan Limited | |
| Nokh Solar Park | 925 | Rajasthan Solar Park Development Company Ltd. | |
| Uttar Pradesh | Solar Park in UP | 440 | Lucknow Solar Power Development Corporation Ltd. |
| Jalaun Solar Park | 1200 | BSUL |
India’s journey towards harnessing solar power reflects a blend of ambition, innovation, and challenges. While significant strides have been made, concerted efforts are needed to address existing challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. With continued investments, technological advancements, and strategic collaborations, India can realize its vision of becoming a global leader in solar energy utilization.
Wind Energy in India:
India has witnessed a significant surge in its wind power generation capacity in recent years, positioning itself as a major player in the global renewable energy arena. As of December 31, 2023, the country boasts a total installed wind power capacity of 44.736 gigawatts (GW), ranking fourth in the world.
Expansion and Distribution: Wind power capacity in India is predominantly concentrated in the southern, western, and northwestern regions of the country. These areas have become hotspots for wind energy development, leveraging their geographical advantages to harness the potential of wind resources effectively.
Installed wind capacity by state in India as of May 31, 2023, presented in a table:
| State | Total Capacity (MW) |
|---|---|
| Gujarat | 10,415.82 |
| Tamil Nadu | 10,124.52 |
| Karnataka | 5,303.05 |
| Rajasthan | 5,193.42 |
| Maharashtra | 5,026.33 |
| Andhra Pradesh | 4,096.65 |
| Madhya Pradesh | 2,844.29 |
| Telangana | 128.10 |
| Kerala | 62.50 |
| Others | 4.30 |
| Total | 43,198.98 |
Cost Reduction: The cost of wind power in India has been on a downward trajectory, making it increasingly competitive in the energy market. Auctions for wind projects have witnessed a remarkable decline in levelized tariffs, reaching a record low of ₹2.43 (3.0¢ US) per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in December 2017. However, there has been a slight uptick in tariffs, rising to ₹3.17 (4.0¢ US) per kWh in May 2023.
Regulatory Measures: To provide clarity and minimize risks for developers, the Indian government introduced guidelines for tariff-based wind power auctions in December 2017. These measures aim to streamline the auction process, ensuring a conducive environment for investment in wind energy projects.
Utilization of Land and Grid Stability: One notable aspect of wind power installations in India is their minimal land footprint, occupying only 2% of the wind farm area. This allows for the optimal utilization of the remaining land for agricultural activities, plantations, and other purposes. Additionally, wind power plants contribute to grid stability by providing fast frequency response, effectively managing fluctuations in grid frequency.
List of India’s largest wind power production facilities:
| Power Plant | Location | State | MWe | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kutch Wind Farm | Kutch | Gujarat | 11,500 | Adani Group, Suzlon |
| Muppandal Wind Farm | Kanyakumari | Tamil Nadu | 1,500 | Muppandal Wind |
| Jaisalmer Wind Park | Jaisalmer | Rajasthan | 1,064 | Suzlon Energy |
| Brahmanvel Windfarm | Dhule | Maharashtra | 528 | Parakh Agro Industries |
| Kayathar | Tuticorin | Tamil Nadu | 300 | Siemens Gamesa, ReNew Power |
| Dhalgaon Windfarm | Sangli | Maharashtra | 278 | Gadre Marine Exports |
| Vankusawade Wind Park | Satara district | Maharashtra | 259 | Suzlon Energy Ltd. |
| Vaspet | Vaspet | Maharashtra | 144 | ReNew Power |
| Tuljapur | Osmanabad | Maharashtra | 126 | Siemens Gamesa, ReNew Power |
| Sipla | Jaisalmer | Rajasthan | 102 | CLP Wind Farms (India) Private Ltd. |
| Saeame | Jamnagar | Gujarat | 101 | CLP Wind Farms (India) Private Ltd. |
| Beluguppa Wind Park | Beluguppa | Andhra Pradesh | 100.8 | Orange Renewable |
| Mamatkheda Wind Park | Mamatkheda | Madhya Pradesh | 100.5 | Orange Renewable |
| Anantapur Wind Park | Nimbagallu | Andhra Pradesh | 100 | Orange Renewable |
| Damanjodi Wind Power Plant | Damanjodi | Odisha | 99 | Suzlon Energy Ltd. |
| Theni | – | Tamil Nadu | 99 | CLP Wind Farms (India) Private Ltd. |
| Saundatti | Belgaum | Karnataka | 84 | CLP Wind Farms (India) Private Ltd. |
| Jath | Jath | Maharashtra | 84 | ReNew Power |
| Welturi | Welturi | Maharashtra | 75 | ReNew Power |
| Acciona Tuppadahalli | Chitradurga District | Karnataka | 56.1 | Tuppadahalli Energy India Pvt Ltd |
| Dangiri Wind Farm | Jaisalmer | Rajasthan | 54 | Oil India Ltd. |
| Nuziveedu Seeds | Bhimasamudra | Karnataka | 50.4 | NSL Renewable Power Pvt Ltd. |
| Khandke | Ahmednagar | Maharashtra | 50 | CLP Wind Farms (India) Private Ltd. |
| Narmada | Nallakonda | Andhra Pradesh | 50 | CLP Wind Farms (India) Private Ltd. |
| Bercha Wind Park | Ratlam | Madhya Pradesh | 50 | Orange Renewable |
| Harapanahalli | Davanagere | Karnataka | 40 | CLP Wind Farms (India) Private Ltd. |
| Cape Comorin | Kanyakumari | Tamil Nadu | 33 | Aban Loyd Chiles Offshore Ltd. |
| Kayathar Subhash | Kayathar | Tamil Nadu | 30 | Subhash Ltd. |
| Dedan | Rajula (Sawarkundla) | Gujarat | 30 | IB Vogt Solar India Pvt Ltd. |
| Jasdan | Jasdan | Gujarat | 25.0 | NTPC LTD. |
| Ramakkalmedu | Ramakkalmedu | Kerala | 25 | Subhash Ltd. |
| Gudimangalam | Gudimangalam | Tamil Nadu | 21 | Gudimangalam Wind Farm |
| Shalivahana Wind | Tirupur | Tamil Nadu | 20.4 | Shalivahana Green Energy. Ltd. |
| Puthlur RCI | Puthlur | Andhra Pradesh | 20 | Wescare (India) Ltd. |
India’s wind power sector has made remarkable strides, driven by technological advancements, favorable policies, and declining costs. With its vast potential and increasing focus on renewable energy, the country is poised to further enhance its position as a leader in the global wind power landscape.