ENERGY-CONSERVATION ASPECTS IN INDIAN THERMAL POWER-STATIONS BY TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS - EXPERIENCE AND PROSPECTIVES

The work presents the analysis of the concentrated efforts put in by I ndian technologists for harnessing maximum energy from thermal Power s tations (TPS). The prime objectives have been to extract maximum energ y from coal. All the controllable losses should be minimized in all op erations and systems. Model outlines and practices followed by energy efficient power stations have been summarized. Measures to consume the least possible steam, materials, and petroleum products have been stu died in detail. The role of condenser vacuum, excess air, all types of auxiliary (works) power, and an energy audit have been investigated i n maximizing power generation. Approaches either to renovate, repair o r retrofit or replace the ageing components having poor economic perfo rmance with modem technologies have been illustrated. The present syst em and technologies would be obsolete and economically and energy-wise highly inefficient by the tum of the century. Thus developed/currentl y advanced and futuristic (under advanced stages of development) techn ologies have been listed for applications now or later. In spite of sp ending 20% of total planned expenditure since 1950 on power, the signi ficance of energy conservation for bridging the energy gap should rema in on the top of the Indian energy alternatives list, according to the conclusions of the present study.