UPSC Prelims 2023 Question:

With reference to coal-based thermal power plants in India, consider the following statements

1. None of them uses seawater.
2. None of them is set up in water-stressed district.
3. None of them is privately owned.
   
   

How many of the above statements are correct?

Explanation:

• In India, several coal-fired thermal power plants employ seawater for a variety of functions, including cooling the condenser system. Seawater is a frequent supply of cooling water for power plants near the coast. It should be noted, however, that not all power plants use seawater; others may rely on freshwater sources. So, statement 1 is not correct.
  
  
• According to a report, 40 per cent of the country’s thermal power plants are located in areas facing high water stress, a problem since these plants use water for cooling. Scarce water is already hampering electricity generation in this region.  So, statement 2 is not correct.
  
  
• There are both privately and publicly owned coal-fired thermal power stations in India. The country's power generating is a collaboration of corporate and public companies. Many private corporations have invested in the power industry and run coal-fired thermal power facilities.  So, statement 3 is not correct.
  
  

Therefore, option (4) is the correct answer.

Subject: Environment | Miscellaneous(env)