Advantages and Disadvantages of Steam Power Plant

Advantages and Disadvantages of Steam Power Plant

Advantages and Disadvantages of Steam Power Plants :

(A) Advantages of Steam Power Plants :

1. Fuel used is cheaper.
2. They can respond quickly with changes in load on the plant.
3. Space required is less compared to hydro power plants.
4. A portion of steam can be used as process steam for various industries.
5. They can be overloaded upto 20% without difficulty. Cost of electric power generation and its initial cost is less compared to diesel plants.
6. Can be located near the load centre conveniently thus reduces the transmission line cost and loss of energy in transmission lines. 

(B) Disadvantages of Steam Power Plants :

1. Operation and maintenance cost is high. 
2. Time needed for errection of plant is high before it is put to operation.
3. Large quantity of water is needed.
4. Coal and ash handling poses a serious problem.
5. The part load efficiency is low.
6. Pollution causes health problems to workers and habitants near the thermal power plant.