Book 22, Question 104
Why Do Many Power Plants Burn Fuels Like Coal and Gas?
Many power plants burn coal, oil, or natural gas. It is a simple way to get a lot of heat. But there are good and bad sides. Natural gas power plants can start up faster than many other kinds.
More fun facts
- Electricity comes from three main kinds of energy: fossil fuels, nuclear energy and renewable energy.
- Natural gas was the top source of US electricity, at about 41%.
- Coal made about 17% of US electricity.
- Nearly all coal power plants use steam turbines.
- Natural gas plants can use steam turbines or gas turbines.
- Some coal plants are built near coal mines to save on shipping costs.
Questions kids ask
Do power plants only make electricity?
Some factories have their own plants that make both heat and electricity, called combined heat and power plants.