Adoption and Introduction of Supercritical Technology in the Power Sector and Consequential Effects in Operation, Efficiency and Carbon Dioxide Emission in the Present Context

Abstract

The paper highlights and traces the history of development of the power sector in India with special reference to the unit sizes of thermal turbo-generators which gradually increase from about 30 MW in 1947 to 660 and 800 MW at present. The initial focus has been on capacity addition to meet the demand increase. However, in the last two decades the greater stress was laid on the efficiency aspects of power generation to reduce the specific fuel consumption and consequently the CO2 reduction. Reference has been made for adoption of CCS technology in our power stations and the pros and cons of the same have been discussed. Recommendations have been made towards the best practices for operation of the supercritical units in most optimal manner. Constructive criticism of the existing philosophical policies of the load dispatch centres has been made. Suggestions are also made to improve the situation. The action plan for climate change is referred to in connection with the strategy to adopt the supercritical technology in the overall improvement ofthe sector.