Electrical Power Station also sometimes referred to as Generating station or simply a power plant is a specialized facility that produces bulk electric power. The basic construction of plants comprises a prime mover coupled with an alternator, which works together to produce electric power.
The prime mover can take various forms, it can be a steam turbine or water turbine, and it converts energy from some form (e.g steam, hydro) into mechanical energy. The alternator then converts the mechanical energy produced by the prime mover into electrical energy.
In order to ensure cheap, reliable, and continuous service, modern generating stations employ a variety of auxiliary equipment and instruments in addition to the prime mover-alternator combination. The electrical energy produced by the generating station is then transmitted and distributed via conductors to various consumers.
The efficient functioning of power plants is vital for meeting the energy demands of modern society.
Types of Electrical Power Plants:
| Power Plant | Detail |
|---|---|
| Hydropower plant | The power plant utilizes the potential energy of water at a high level for the generation of electrical energy. |
| Nuclear power plant | A generating station in which nuclear energy is converted into electrical energy |
| Coal power plant | A generating plant that converts the heat energy of coal combustion into electrical energy. It is also known as a steam power station |
| Diesel Power Plant | A power plant in which a diesel engine is used as the prime mover for the generation of electrical energy |
| Solar power plants | Arrays of solar panels that are used for converting solar energy into electricity. Solar power plants utilize thermal energy from the sun. |
| Wind power plants | The wind energy is used to drive the wind turbines which drive generators |