Waste heat utilization: promises and problems

Waste heat utilization enables some of the energy lost at power plants to be captured for agricultural, space heating, and other uses. The Tennessee Valley Authority and others are experimenting with evaporative pads and heat-exchanging systems to control the temperature and humidity of greenhouses. It is hoped that high front-end capital costs will be offset by fuel savings and the market value of crops. Proximity to the generating station improves the economics and favors local over centralized power plants. Waste heat shows promise for aquaculture by extending the growing season and increasing local production. Other options are the use of waste heat resources for process and district heating. Feasibility studies will examine the land and site requirements, while research and development programs will improve performance and public acceptance.