Waste power plant efficiency math problem

In summary, if 230 million tonnes of solid waste were burned in waste-to-energy power plants with 20% efficiency, it could produce approximately 8.04 trillion kWh of electrical energy annually. This is equivalent to only 0.21% of the total US electrical energy production of 3.8 trillion kWh. For part B, the average electric power output from all those waste-burning power plants would be 3.67 GW. This could potentially displace around 3.67 coal-fired power plants with a 1 GW capacity each. To calculate kWh, the energy density of 20 MJ/kg must be converted to kWh by multiplying it by 0.000277778, which gives a value of 5.
  • #1
courtneywetts
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Homework Statement



If 230 million tonnes of solid waste were burned in waste-to-energy power plants that are 20% efficient

a) how many kilowatt- hours of electrical energy could be produced in a year? Compare this quantity with the total US electrical energy production of 3.8 trillion kWh annually

b) what would be the equivalent average electric power output from all those waste- burning power plants? How many 1- GW coal- fired plants could they displace?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



For part A, I am not sure how to calculate kWh. I know that 1 tonne is equivalent to 1000 kg. I am not sure if this is relevant in any way.
 
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  • #2
Also the energy density is 20 MJ/kg not sure what this means though
 

1. How is waste power plant efficiency calculated?

Waste power plant efficiency is calculated by dividing the total energy output of the plant by the total energy input. This is typically expressed as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating a more efficient plant.

2. What factors affect waste power plant efficiency?

Several factors can affect waste power plant efficiency, including the type of waste being used as fuel, the design and technology of the plant, and the maintenance and operation practices. Other factors such as environmental conditions and the quality of the waste can also play a role in efficiency.

3. Why is waste power plant efficiency important?

Waste power plant efficiency is important because it directly impacts the amount of energy that can be produced from waste and the cost effectiveness of the plant. A higher efficiency means more energy can be generated from the same amount of waste, reducing the need for additional resources and potentially lowering costs.

4. How can waste power plant efficiency be improved?

There are several ways to improve waste power plant efficiency, including investing in newer technology and equipment, implementing better maintenance and operation practices, and optimizing the process for converting waste to energy. Regular monitoring and analysis of performance data can also help identify areas for improvement.

5. What are the potential benefits of increasing waste power plant efficiency?

Increasing waste power plant efficiency can result in several benefits, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by producing more energy from waste and reducing the reliance on fossil fuels. It can also lead to cost savings, improved environmental performance, and a more sustainable use of resources.

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