Macrogeneration Flashcards
In the large scale generation of electricity from fossil fuels. What is taking place in the boiler and turbine?
Boiler- combustion of fuel to produce steam
Turbine- steam driving the turbine which is connected to a generator to produce electricity
Renewable energy sources can be used to generate electricity either directly or indirectly. Give one example of their use of electricity directly and one for indirectly.
Direct- wind, hydroelectric, wave or tidal
Indirect- solar photovoltaic or biomass
Identify the main energy transformations that take place in the wind turbine
Kinetic energy is transferred from the shaft, to relative rotational motion between a metal coil and a magnetic field in the generator
This results in electromagnetic induction. On other words kinetic energy of relative motion is transferred into inducted electrical energy.
Describe how electricity is distributed through the national grid
Power stations generate electricity at 22kV
This is stepped up to high voltage 275kV it 400kV by transformers
Electricity is transmitted at high voltage to reduce energy losses in the wires
Voltage is stepped down by transformers close to consumers
Electricity is distributed to homes at 240V
Explain how a smart grid facilitates the incorporation of electricity generated from renewable sources
The energy produced from renewable sources varies over time
A smart grid system computer measures the amount of electricity that is being produced at any point in time and then increases of decreases the amount of non-renewable that needs to be generated to meet the requirements.
In doing so the smart grid enables the amount of pollutant/carbon dioxide produced to be minimised.
Explain the concept of a smart grid
A computer controlled electricity network what switches input from one energy source to another as demand for energy varies on the grid.
Outline one way in which a smart grid can facilitate the efficient supply and distribution of electricity
By using a network of intelligent meters located throughout the grid to accurately predict demand.
By incorporating electricity generated by a wide range of energy sources, including renewables, in order to meet demand
By incorporating energy generated from international energy sources
Identify another name for Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
Cogeneration
Discuss the role of cogeneration in improving energy efficiencies in traditional power plants
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) integrates the production of usable heat and power
In one single, highly efficient process
CHP generates electricity whilst also capturing usable heat that is produced in this process
This contrasts with traditional ways of generating electricity where vast amounts of heat are wasted
