1
ELECTRICAL GENERATIONSalwati binti Mohamed@AwangMasliza binti Mat JusohSaifenah binti Saipudin
Published and printed by: Politeknik Kota Bharu Department of Electrical EngineeringKM. 24, Kok Lanas, 16450 Ketereh, Kelantan. Electrical GenerationFirst Edition 2025© 2025 Salwati Binti Mohamed@Awang, Masliza binti Mat Jusoh, Saifenah binti SaipudinAll rights reserved. No part of publication may be reproduced, stored in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior written permission of the copyright holder.Electrical Generation / Salwati Binti Mohamed@Awang
APPRECIATIONThanks to Allah, by His grace and blessings, this book has been successfullycompleted.First and foremost, we would like to express our deepest gratitudeto the Head of the Electrical Engineering Department for his unwaveringsupport and trust in the publication of this book. Our heartfelt thanks also go toPuan Sheilani Binti Saari, whose continuous support and meticulous review ofthe content have been invaluable throughout this process. We would also liketo acknowledge and appreciate our dedicated teammates, whose ideas,cooperation, and guidance played a crucial role during the preparation of thisbook. Last but certainly not least, our sincere appreciation goes to our familiesand children on your patience, understanding, and constant encouragementhave been our greatest source of strength and inspiration.Salwati Bt Mohamed@AwangMasliza binti Mat JusohSaifenah binti SaipudinDepartment of Electrical EngineeringPoliteknik Kota Bharu, KM. 24, Kok Lanas, 16450 Ketereh, Kelantan
AbstractThis book is produced based on topics covered in Power Systemscourse, which is part of the Power System curriculum. It serves as aguide for students, especially those taking Power System-relatedsubjects. The content primarily focuses on the electrical generation. Thebook are covers about the concept of electrical power plant, aconventional power generation and an engineering design to theenvironmental control system used at the power plant. In addition, tofurther enhance students' understanding, this book includes a set of selfassessment questions along with their answer schemes. It is hoped thatthe publication of this book will serve as a valuable reference for bothstudents and instructors.
AUTHOR’S BACKGROUND SALWATI BT MOHAMED@AWANG is a lecturer in the Department Electrical Engineering,Polytechnic of Kota Bharu. He has 23 years of experience in the Electrical Engineering field. She graduatedfrom University of Technology Malaysia in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. Then, shecontinued her studies in the Master of Education (Technical) level at Tun Hussein Onn Institute of Technologyin 2000. Beginning in 2002, she has served as a lecturer at Polytechnic of Kota Bharu till now. At Polytechnic,she also holds several side duties such as Persatuan Pelajar Kejuruteraan Elektrik, alumni and student excellencecoordinator, Power System course coordinator, discipline committee and PPI & collaboration committee. MASLIZA MAT JUSOH is a lecturer in the Department of Electrical Engineering, Polytechnicof Kota Bharu. She has 18 years of experience in the Electrical Engineering field. She graduated with a Bachelorin Electrical Engineering from Kolej Technology Tun Hussein Onn (KUiTTHO) in 2003. In 2008, shefurthered her studies and obtained a Diploma in Education (Technical and Vocational) from UniversityPendidikan Sultan Idris. Since 2006, she has been serving as a lecturer at Polytechnic of Kota Bharu. Apart fromher teaching duties, she also holds several additional responsibilities such as Internal Auditor for ISO45001:2018 OHSMS, Industrial Training Coordinator and member of the Corporate, Industrial Services &Industry Visiting Committee. As an experienced lecturer, she has also involved as a committee member ofEngineering Technology Accreditation Council (ETAC). In additional she is active in Welfare activities and wasappointed as a member of the Welfare Committee in the Department of Electrical Engineering. SAIFENAH BINTI SAIPUDIN is a lecturer in the Department of Electrical Engineering,Polytechnic of Kota Bharu. She has 24 years of experience in the Electrical Engineering field. He graduated hisDiploma in Electrical Engineering (Power) at University Technology Malaysia (UTM) in 1996. She further herstudies in in Electrical Engineering with Honours at Institute Technology Tun Hussein Onn (ITTHO) in 1999, thenin 2000 she completed Master in Technical & Vocation Education. Beginning in 2001, she has served as a lecturer atPolytechnic Kuching, Polytechnic Sultan Abdul Halim Shah (POLIMAS), Polytechnic Sultanah Bahiyah (PTSB),Polytechnic Sultan Azlan Shah (PSAS) and 2021 he has served as a lecturer at Polytechnic of Kota Bharu. AtPolytechnic, he also holds several side duties such as ETAC coordinator, Final Year Project cocordinator, industrialtraining Committee, and collaboration & industry visiting lecturers Committee.
TABLE OF CONTENTSTitle Page1.0 Definition of power generation. 11.1 Location Of Power Generation In Peninsular Malaysia 21.2 Types of Power Plant 31.3 Function of Electrical Power Plant 31.4 Definition of National Grid 42.0 Five types of Power Plant 52.1 Hydro Power Plant 52.1.1 Definition of Hydro Power Plant. 52.1.2 Schematic arrangement 62.1.3 Main stages of Hydro Power Plant 72.1.4 Hydro Power Generator 82.1.5 Types of water turbines 92.1.6 Function of components hydro power plant 102.1.7 Operation of hydro power plant 112.1.8 Advantages and disadvantages of hydro power plant 12-132.1.9 Advantages and disadvantages Hydro Power Plant based on characteristics given 142.10 Self Assessment 1 152.2 Gas Turbine Power Plant 162.2.1 Schematic arrangement 172.2.2. Main stages of turbine power plant 182.2.3 Advantages and disadvantages of gas turbine 192.2.4 Advantages and disadvantages of gas turbine based on characteristics given 202.2.5 Self Assessment 2 212.3. Steam Power Plant 222.3.1 Schematic arrangement 232.3.2 Main stages of Steam Power Plant 24-252.3.3 Advantages of steam power plant 262.3.4 Disadvantages of steam power plant 272.3.5 Advantages and disadvantages of steam power plant 28 based on characteristics given2.3.5 Self Assessment 3 29i
TABLE OF CONTENTSTitle Page2.4. Hidrogen Power Plant 302.4.1 Schematic arrangement 312.4.2 Main stages of Hydrogen Power Plant 322.4.3 Advantages and disadvantages of hidrogen Power Plant 33-342.4.4 Advantages and disadvantages of hidrogen power plant based on characteristics given 352.4.5 Self Assessment 4 362.5. Nuclear Power Plant 372.5.1 Schematic Arrangement 382.5.2 Main stages of Nuclear Power Plant 39-402.5.3 Advantages and disadvantages of Nuclear Power Plant 412.5.4 Disadvantages of Nuclear Power Plant 422.5.5 Advantages and disadvantages of steam power plant based on characteristics given 432.5.6 Self Assessment 5 443.0 Pollution that can be caused by coal and biomass while generating electricity 45-463.1 Technology use to treat the pollution 473.1.1 Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) 473.1.1.1. Main stages of ESP 48-503.1.2. Fabric Filter 513.1.2.1. Main stages of fabric filter 52-533.1.3 Flue gas desulphurization (FGD) 543.1.3.1. Main stages of FGD 55-563.1.4 Self Assessment 5 57 QRcode for assessments 1 to 5 schema 58QR code video for electricity generation video 58 QR code video for hidrogen power plant 59QR code video for hidrogen power plant 59 3.2 Referrences 60-61ii
1.0 Definition of power generation.Power generation, also known as electricitygeneration, is the process of producing electricpower from primary energy sources, including heat(thermal), wind, solar, and chemical energy.1
1.1 LOCATION OF POWER GENERATION IN PENINSULAR MALAYSIA2
1.2 Types of Power Plant1. Hydro power plant2. Gas turbine power plant3. Steam power plant4. Hydrogen power plant5. Nuclear power plant1.3 Function of Electrical Power Plant1. The primary function of an electricalpower plant is to convert various forms ofenergy, such as the chemical energy infuel, the kinetic energy of water or wind, orthe thermal energy from nuclear reactions,into mechanical energy to drive agenerator. The generator then converts thismechanical energy into electrical energy,which is supplied to the electrical grid topower homes, industries, and businesses.3
1.4 Definition of National GridThe National Grid in Malaysia is the high-voltageelectric power transmission network servingPeninsular Malaysia. It is owned and operated byTenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) through itsTransmission Division.In addition to the National Grid,there are two separate electrical grids in Sabah andSarawak, operated by Sabah Electricity Sdn. Bhd.(SESB) and Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB)The system spans the entirety of Peninsular Malaysia,transmitting electricity in bulk from power generators,both those owned by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB)and Independent Power Producers (IPPs), todistribution networks. It also delivers electricitydirectly to large industrial consumers, such as steelmills and fertilizer plants.4
2.1 Hydro Power Plant2.1.1 Definition of Hydro Power Plant. A hydroelectric power plant generates electrical energyby harnessing the potential energy of water stored at ahigh elevation. These plants are typically located in hilly ormountainous areas, where dams can be constructedconveniently and large water reservoirs can be formed.This type of power plant is capable of producingsubstantial amounts of electrical energy. Hydropower plants generate electricity by capturing theenergy of falling water. A turbine converts the kineticenergy of the falling water into mechanical energy, whichis then transformed into electrical energy by a generator. Water is stored at a high elevation, where it gains potentialenergy. When released, the water flows downward andstrikes the turbine blades, causing them to rotate.2.0 Five types of Power Plant5
2.1.2 Schematic arrangement 6
2.1.3 Main stages of Hydro Power Plant Dam or Weir: Creates a reservoir by impounding water at a higher elevation, providing potential energy. Reservoir: The body of water stored behind the dam. Penstocks/Tunnels: These pipes or tunnels direct water from the reservoir to the turbines. Turbines: The rotating blades of the turbine are struck by the flowing water, converting the water's kinetic energy into rotational mechanical energy. Generators: The rotating turbine shaft is connected to a generator, which transforms the mechanical energy into electrical energy through magnetic fields. Power Station/Engine House: The structure that houses the turbines, generators, and other control systems. Transformers: Step up the voltage of the generated electricity for efficient transmission and distribution. Transmission Lines: Carry the electricity from the power plant to the grid. 7
2.1.4 Hydro Power Generator8
2.1.5 Types of water turbines9
Components of Hydropower Plant 1. Reservoir: This is where water is stored for use as and when needed. 2. Penstock: This is a conduit (conduits) that carries water to the turbines. They are made of reinforced concrete or steel. 3. Water turbine: Water turbines are used to convert the hydraulic energy of flowing water into rotational mechanical energy. 4. Generator: This machine is used to convert rotational mechanical energy transferred from the turbine through the shaft into electrical energy. The produced electrical energy is transmitted to the transformer for long-distance transmission.2.1.6 Function of components hydro power plant10
Hydro power plants store water in large reservoirs.Thewater from the dam is lead to the water turbine through the penstock.Kinetic energy of water is converted to rotational mechanical energy by the turbineThe turbine is connected to the generator through the turbine shaft and hence mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy by the generator. The produced electrical energy is transmitted to the transformer for long distance transmission.2.1.7 Operation of power hydro plant11
2.1.8 Advantages and disadvantages of hydro power plantAdvantages ;Renewable Energy:Hydropower utilizes the natural water cycle, making it a sustainable and renewable energy source.Low Emissions:As it doesn't burn fuel, hydropower produces very few greenhouse gases, significantly reducing air pollution compared to fossil fuels. Low Operating Costs:Once built, the operating and maintenance costs are generally low, making it cost-effective over its long lifespan. Reliable and Flexible Power:Hydropower plants can quickly adjust water flow to meet changing energy demands, providing a steady and flexible power supply. Water Management:Dams create reservoirs that can be used for irrigation, flood control, and supplying clean water for other uses. Job Creation and Economic Benefits:Building and operating hydropower plants can create jobs and boost local economies, and reservoirs can support recreation and fisheries. 12
2.1.8 Advantages and disadvantages of hydro power plantDisadvantages ;High Initial Costs:The capital cost and construction time for largehydropower plants are very high.Environmental Impact:Habitat Destruction: Large reservoirs flood forests andother habitats, while changes in river flow disruptaquatic ecosystems and fish migrations.Nutrient and Sediment Disruption: Dams alterdownstream sediment and nutrient flows, affectingsoil fertility.Displacement:Reservoirs often displace local communities andwildlife from their homes and habitats.Drought Dependency:The ability to generate power depends on wateravailability, making the system vulnerable to droughtsand seasonal changes in rainfall.Limited Locations:Suitable locations for hydropower plants aregeographically limited by factors like available waterresources and suitable terrain.Risk of Dam Failure:While providing benefits, large dams pose acatastrophic flood risk if they fail.13
2.1.9 Advantages and disadvantages Hydro Power Plant based on characteristics given14
2.10 Self Assessment 11. Explain FOUR(4) types of power plants. 2. Explain TWO(2) advantages and TWO(2) disadvantages of hydro power plant.3. Construct the operational block diagram of hydro power plant. 4. Explain the operation of hydro power plant.15
2.2 Gas Turbine Power PlantDefinition of gas turbine power plant. A gas turbine power plant is a type of thermalpower plant that uses a gas turbine engine toconvert the chemical energy of fuels such asnatural gas into electrical energy. The plant operates by first compressing air,which is then mixed with fuel and combustedto produce high-temperature, high-pressuregases. These gases expand rapidly and spinthe turbine, converting thermal energy intomechanical energy. The rotating turbine drivesa generator to produce electricity. In combined-cycle power plants, the hotexhaust gases are not wasted. They arerecovered and used to generate additionalpower, typically through a steam turbine,thereby significantly improving overallefficiency.16
2.2.1 Schematic arrangement 17
2.2.2. Main stages of turbine power plant Compressor:Draws in large amounts of air and compresses it, increasing its temperature and pressure. Combustor:Compressed air mixes with fuel (like natural gas) and is ignited, creating hot, high-pressure gas. Turbine:The hot gases expand and rush past the turbine blades, causing the turbine to spin rapidly. Generator:Connected to the turbine's shaft, the spinning turbine drives the generator to produce electricity. 18
Advantages Low Initial Cost:The initial investment for a gas turbine plant is generally lower compared to an equivalent steam power plant. Smaller Size and Less Space:Compared to other power plants of similar capacity, gas turbines require less space for installation. Fuel Flexibility:Gas turbines can utilize a range of fuels, including gaseous and liquid fuels like natural gas and diesel. Reduced Water Consumption:They require less water for cooling than steam power plants. Less Vibration and Noise:Compared to internal combustion engines, gas turbines experience less vibration. Although they produce high-frequency noise from the compressor, their continuous exhaust is relatively quieter than reciprocating engines. 2.2.3 Advantages and disadvantages of gas turbineDisadvantages Low Thermal Efficiency: Open-cycle gas turbines are inherently less efficient as they release a significant amount of thermal energy in their exhaust. High Fuel Consumption: They consume a substantial amount of fuel to drive the compressors and generate power, especially at lower efficiency levels. High Operating Temperatures: The extreme operating temperatures require specialized, expensive materials to withstand the heat, which also affects the lifespan of some components. High Noise Levels: The continuous operation of the compressor creates high-frequency noise, which can be a significant issue. External Starting Power Required: Unlike some other plants, gas turbines need an external power source, such as a starting motor or black start generator, to reach self-sustained operation. 19
2.2.4 Advantages and disadvantages of gas turbine based on characteristics given20
1. State the function of gas turbine power plant2. Explain the main stages of turbine power plant3. State 2 advantages and disadvantages of turbine power plant2.2.5 Self Assessment 221
Definiton of steam power plantThe primary function of a steam power plant is to convert heat energy into electrical energy by heating water in a boiler to produce high-pressure steam.This steam is directed onto a turbine, causing it to spin. The rotating turbine drives a generator, which produces electricity. After passing through the turbine, the steam is condensed back into water in a condenser and returned to the boiler, completing the cycle.Others :2.3. Steam Power PlantTanjung Bin Energy Power Plant Pontian Johor, 3100MWTanjung Bin Power Plant: Located in Johor, this is a large thermal power plant with significant steam turbine components.Jimah Power Plant: Situated in Negeri Sembilan, this plant uses thermal generation and features of steam turbines.Tuanku Jafaar Power Plant: Also known as the PortDickson Power Plant, this facility in Negri Sembilan is owned by Tenaga Nasional, contributing to the nation's power grid.Paka Power Station: A significant thermal power plant in Malaysia.Lumut GB3 Power Plant: This plant contributes to the energy supply in Malaysia.22
2.3.1 Schematic arrangement23
2.3.2 Main stages of Steam Power Plant1. Boiler (Steam Generation)Fuel is burned in the boiler to heat water. Water is pumped into the boiler, where it is converted into high-pressure, high-temperature steam. The steam is then passed through separators and dryers to remove any water droplets.2. Steam Turbine (Mechanical Energy Conversion)The high-pressure steam is directed to a steam turbine. The force of the steam spins the turbine blades, converting the steam's heat energy into mechanical (rotational) energy.24
3. Generator (Electrical Energy Conversion)The rotating turbine is connected to a generator. The generator uses the mechanical energy from the turbine to produce electricity.4. Condenser (Steam Condensation)After passing through the turbine, the steam is cooled in a condenser, where it turns back into water. This process is crucial for creating a low-pressure environment at the turbine's outlet, which helps maximize efficiency.5. Feed Water Heater and Pump (Water Re-circulation)Condensed water is pumped back to the boiler, often through feed water heaters, repeating the cycle.2.3.2 Main stages of Steam Power Plant25
AdvantagesFuel Flexibility: They can utilize various fuel sources, including coal, natural gas, oil, or biomass, offering versatility in energy generation. Low Initial Cost: Compared to other power plants, such as hydroelectric, the initial investment for constructing a steam power plant is relatively low. Reliable and High Power Output: Steam power plants are a dependable source of electricity and can generate power on a large scale, providing sustained power output. Location Flexibility: They can be located near fuel and water supplies, as well as near the load centers, which can reduce transmission costs and losses. Less Land Area: They require a smaller land area for installation compared to hydroelectric power plants. High Operating Efficiency: Steam turbines, a key component, have higher operating efficiency compared to some other engine types. 2.3.3 Advantages and disadvantages of steam power plant 26
DisadvantagesEnvironmental Pollution: Burning fossil fuels releases harmful gases that contributeto air pollution and global warming.Low Efficiency: The overall efficiency of a steam power plant is relativelylow, typically ranging from 29% to 41%.High Running Costs: Fuel consumption and ongoing maintenance can lead tohigh running costs.Harm to Aquatic Life: The process of cooling the power plant often involvesdischarging large amounts of heated water into rivers orother water bodies, which can adversely affect aquaticorganisms and disturb the ecosystem.Water Requirement: Steam power plants require a significant and continuoussupply of water.Fuel Transportation: The transportation of fuel, especially for larger plants, canpose significant logistical challenges.2.3.4 Advantages and disadvantages of steam power plant 27
2.3.5 Advantages and disadvantages of steam power plant based on characteristics given28
2.3.6 Self Assessment 31. State the function of steam power plant2. Explain the main stages of steam power plant3. State 2 advantages and disadvantages of steam power plant29
Definition of hidrogen power plant A hydrogen power plant generates electricity usinghydrogen as its fuel, typically via hydrogen fuel cellsor by burning hydrogen in modified gas turbines Hydrogen fuel cells produce electricity by combininghydrogen and oxygen atoms. The hydrogen reactswith oxygen across an electrochemical cell similar toa battery to produce electricity, water, and smallamounts of heat. Fuel cells vary in size, type, andapplication.2.4. Hidrogen Power Plant30
2.4.1 Schematic arrangement31
2.4.2 Main stages of Hydrogen Power Plant1. Hydrogen Production: Electrolysis: Uses electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. \"Green\" hydrogen uses renewable energy for this process. Steam Reforming: Produces hydrogen from natural gas or other hydrocarbons. Other Methods: Includes thermochemical processes (using heat to split water), biological methods (using microbes), and as a byproduct of other industrial processes. 2. Hydrogen Storage: After production, hydrogen needs to be stored securely before it can be used. Methods include storing it as liquefied hydrogen (LH2) or compressed gas. 3. Hydrogen Distribution: The stored hydrogen is transported to where it will be used. This can be done via pipelines, tube trailers, or trucks. 4. Hydrogen Utilization: Power Generation: At the power plant, hydrogen is used to generate electricity. Fuel Cells: Hydrogen is fed into fuel cells, which convert its chemical energy directly into electricity with water as a byproduct. Turbines: Hydrogen can also be burned in turbines to drive them, similar to how other fuels are used. 32
Advantages1. Environmentally Friendly:When produced using renewable energy (greenhydrogen), hydrogen power plants emit only watervapor, resulting in zero carbon emissions andcontributing to a reduced carbon footprint.2. High Energy Density:Hydrogen is a very powerful fuel, offering highenergy density and making it an efficient way togenerate power, potentially more efficient thantraditional combustion technologies.3. Renewable and Abundant:Hydrogen is a renewable energy source and isplentiful in supply, offering a potentiallyinexhaustible fuel source.4. Versatile Applications:Hydrogen can be used in a wide range ofapplications, from generating electricity and heat topowering vehicles, providing a versatile energysolution.5. Reduced Noise and Visual Pollution:Hydrogen fuel cells produce little to no noise orvisual pollution, a benefit over other sources likewind turbines.2.4.3 Advantages and disadvantages of hidrogen Power Plant33
DisadvantagesHigh Production Costs:The processes to produce hydrogen, especially greenhydrogen through electrolysis using renewable energy,are energy-intensive and currently expensive, requiringsignificant investments in infrastructure.Storage and Transportation Challenges:Hydrogen is a highly flammable and volatile gas. Itrequires specialized, high-pressure storage andinfrastructure, which can be bulky, complex, and costly.Infrastructure Limitations:A widespread hydrogen fuel cell network requires a vastexpansion of infrastructure, including the development ofnumerous refueling stations and an effective distributionnetwork, which is currently lacking.Environmental Impact of Production:The majority of hydrogen is currently produced from fossilfuels (\"grey\" or \"brown\" hydrogen), a process thatreleases significant amounts of carbon dioxide into theatmosphere, negating its environmental benefits.Safety Concerns:The high flammability of hydrogen necessitatescomprehensive safety measures to prevent leaks andexplosions, making its handling and storage a criticalchallenge.2.4.3 Advantages and disadvantages of hidrogen Power Plant34
2.4.4 Advantages and disadvantages of hidrogen power plant based on characteristics given35
2.4.5 Self Assessment 41. State the function of hidrogen power plant2. Explain the main stages of hydrogen power plant3. State 2 advantages and disadvantages of hidrogen power plant36
Definition of nuclear power plantA nuclear power plant is a facility that usesthe heat from nuclear fission to generateelectricity. The process is similar to aconventional thermal power plant, butinstead of burning fossil fuels, it controls anuclear chain reaction to produce heat.2.5. Nuclear Power PlantNuclear Power Plant in China37
2.5.1 Schematic Arrangement38
1. Nuclear Fission (Heat Generation) Fuel: Nuclear fuel, usually uranium, is placed in thereactor core. Fission: The process of nuclear fission begins when aneutron strikes a uranium atom, causing it to split andrelease a large amount of heat and more neutrons, whichthen strike other uranium atoms, creating a self-sustainingchain reaction. Heat Exchange: This heat is used to heat water andcreate steam.2. Steam Generation Steam Turbine: The high-temperature, high-pressure steam is directedtowards a steam turbine, causing its blades to spin rapidly. Generator: The turbine is connected to an electric generator, whichconverts the mechanical energy of the spinning turbineinto electrical energy.3. Condensation and Water Recycling Condenser: After passing through the turbine, the steam iscooled in a condenser, where it is converted back intowater. Cooling: This process typically uses water from a river,lake, or cooling towers. Water Reuse: The condensed water is then pumped backto the reactor to be heated again, completing the cycle.2.5.2 Main stages of Nuclear Power Plant39
4. Electricity Distribution Transformers:The electricity generated by the generator is sent totransformers, which step up the voltage for efficienttransmission over long distances. Grid:The power is then distributed to the electrical grid for use byhomes and businesses.2.5.2 Main stages of Nuclear Power Plant40
2.5.3 Advantages and disadvantages of Nuclear Power PlantAdvantages1. Zero-emissions electricity: Nuclear reactors produce massive amounts of carbonfree power during operation, helping to combat climatechange by offsetting millions of metric tons of carbondioxide that would be released by fossil fuels.2. High power output and reliability: Nuclear power plants can operate consistently 24/7,regardless of weather conditions, providing reliable\"baseload\" power to the electric grid. Nuclear plants have the highest capacity factor of anyenergy source, generating power over 90% of the time,making them more dependable than wind (34%) or solar(24%).3. High energy density: Nuclear fuel has an extremely high energy density,meaning a small amount of uranium can produce anenormous amount of energy, reducing the need forextensive mining and transportation compared to fossilfuels.4. Small land footprint: Nuclear power plants require relatively little spacecompared to renewable energy sources like wind andsolar farms, which require significantly larger tracts ofland to produce the same amount of electricity.41
2.5.4 Advantages and disadvantages of Nuclear Power PlantDisadvantages1. High initial investment:Nuclear plants are extremely capital-intensive and expensive tobuild, often taking many years or even decades to complete. Costoverruns are also common for these large, complex infrastructureprojects.2. Hazardous radioactive waste:The spent fuel produced by nuclear fission remains highlyradioactive and dangerous for thousands of years, requiringsecure, long-term storage and disposal. There is still nopermanent solution for high-level nuclear waste in the U.S.3. Risk of accidents:While modern nuclear plants are built with extensive safetyfeatures, the potential for a catastrophic accident and theuncontrolled release of radiation exists, as demonstrated bythe Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters. A major accident cancause severe environmental damage, loss of life, and costlycleanup.4. Non-renewable fuel source:Uranium is a finite, non-renewable resource that is mined likeother metals. While current reserves could last for severaldecades, the long-term sustainability of nuclear power usingcurrent technology is a concern.42