03-07-2022, 06:34 PM
Racer X may be referring to combined cycle gas turbine plants that can reach efficiencies of 60-64%. The hot exhaust from a gas turbine is used to generate steam for a steam turbine for additional power production. A fossil fueled steam generation plant maxes out at around 42% efficiency, so Lux Interior is correct for that type of electrical power generation. That is still better than your usual gas auto engine, max efficiency is in the 25-30% range.
Only a fraction of the electrical generation plants are combined cycle. Some steam powered plants gain some additional thermal efficiency by using the low pressure steam as a heat source for either industrial operations nearby, or residential/commercial heating.
Only a fraction of the electrical generation plants are combined cycle. Some steam powered plants gain some additional thermal efficiency by using the low pressure steam as a heat source for either industrial operations nearby, or residential/commercial heating.