Most electrical energy in the United States is generated in large-scale power cy

Question

Most electrical energy in the United States is generated in large-scale power cycles through conversion of thermal energy to mechanical energy, which is then converted to electrical energy. Assume a thermal efficiency of 0.35 for conversion of thermal to mechanical energy, and an efficiency of 0.95 for conversion of mechanical to electrical energy. Line losses in the distribution system amount to 20%. If the cost of fuel for the power cycle is $4.00 /GJ, estimate the cost of electricity delivered to the customer in $ per kWhr. Ignore operating costs, profits, and taxes. Compare this number with that found on a typical electric bill

Explanation / Answer

3.6 MJ=1kWh =>1GJ=(1/3.6)x1000kWh=277.78kWh. .. Now, If fuel costs $4/GJ => 1GJ input fuel needs 4$, Output energy is (1x0.35x0.95)x20/100=0.0655, therefore $4 produces energy=0.0655GJ=0.0655x277.78=18.195kWh. Therefore cost of one kWh energy = 4/18.195=0.2198. Answer is $0.2198/kWh

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