Electric Power Generation – ElectricalEngineering.XYZ
The ultimate knowledge source on Electric Power Generation by ElectricalEngineering.XYZ
Contents
What is Electric Power Generation
The process of generation of electric power from different energy sources is known as power generation. It is the first step in power cycle (the other ones being tranmission, distribution, and utilization).
Just like any other product, Electric energy is manufactured by the conversion of different power sources available in nature. Since electric energy can’t be stored in bulk it must be produced and transmitted to the point of use at the instant it is needed.
Sources of Energy
Crrently there are five main sources of energy that are available for power generation.
Sun
The Sun is the primary source of energy which can be used for producing power. Two prominent methods for producing energy from sun is:
- Using solar panels
- Using solar raidators
Wind
Wind is another source of energy that can be used to run wind turbines which drives wind generators
Water
When water is stored at a certain height (given a certain head), it possesses potential energy. Turbines are synchronized to the alternators. When water is allowed to fall on the turbine it converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Nuclear
Nuclear fuel have capability of producing huge amount of energy. Nuclear fuels are employed in nuclear power station where the nuclear energyis used to generate heat, which is then used in steam turbines for producing electricity.
Coal
Heat enery obtained from coal is used to drive steam turbines that are synchronised with alternators.
5 Major Types of Power Generation Plants
| Power Plant | Detail |
|---|---|
| Hydropower plant | Uses water for power generation |
| Nuclear power plant | Uses nuclear as a heat source |
| Coal power plant | Uses coal as a source of heat |
| Solar power plants | Arrays of solar panels used for converting solar energy into electricity |
| Wind power plants | The wind energy is used to drive the wind turbines which drive generators |
Economics of Power Generation
The actual price of electric power varies considerably around the world. It ranges from few cents to half a dollar (approx).
Electrical Engineers are always interested in determining the optimal cost of energy per unit (one kWh).
Power Generation by Countries
Given below is list of energy
| Sr. no | Country | Power Generation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CHINA | 5883 billion kWh |
| 2 | UNITED STATES | 4095 billion kWh |
| 3 | INDIA | 1386 billion kWh |
| 4 | RUSSIA | 1031 billion kWh |
| 5 | JAPAN | 989.3 billion kWh |
| 6 | CANADA | 649.6 billion kWh |
| 7 | GERMANY | 612.8 billion kWh |
| 8 | BRAZIL | 567.9 billion kWh |
| 9 | FRANCE | 529.1 billion kWh |
| 10 | KOREA, SOUTH | 526 billion kWh |
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