Plant Operation Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Thermal efficiency is a critical performance indicator in a power plant, as it quantifies how effectively the plant converts the input energy into useful output energy. It is defined as the ratio of useful energy output—such as electricity generated—to the total energy input, typically measured in fuel or heat. A higher thermal efficiency indicates that a power plant is more effective at converting fuel into electricity, thus implying better performance and reduced fuel consumption for the same power output. This metric is essential for evaluating the economic and environmental efficiency of power generation systems.

The other options focus on different aspects of plant operations or energy sources that do not directly relate to the concept of thermal efficiency. Options regarding cooling systems, mechanical components, or renewable capacities address performance or functionality in separate contexts and do not measure the conversion efficiency of energy inputs directly.