Viability Analysis of a Steam Turbine Plant in Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluates the technical and economic viability of the Egbin steam turbine power plant in Nigeria using operational data obtained over eleven years (2010–2020). The assessment focused on key performance indicators such as thermal efficiency, steam flow rate, steam plant heat rate, capacity factor, power availability, and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). Thermodynamic performance equations and economic evaluation principles were applied, while MATLAB was used for simulation and validation of results. The plant, with an installed capacity of 1320 MW, recorded an average thermal efficiency of 45.79%, indicating satisfactory operational performance within acceptable industrial standards for steam power plants. The average steam plant heat rate was 87,637 kJ/kWh, while the capacity factor was 57.38%, showing moderate utilization of installed capacity. The plant generated approximately 91% of its total installed capacity during the study period, reflecting good operational availability. Economic analysis showed an average LCOE of ₦45.33/kWh, confirming the plant’s economic sustainability. The findings demonstrate that the Egbin steam power plant remains both thermodynamically efficient and economically viable for reliable electricity generation in Nigeria.