Barriers Influencing in Thermal Power Plant Process: A Sustainability Perspective

This article aims to develop a methodology for systematically identifying, analyzing, and assessing key challenges encountered by thermal power plants with a focus on sustainability. Through a comprehensive review of expert opinions and relevant literature, ten critical factors have been identified. The study employs a real-world industrial context, specifically a thermal power plant in South India, to classify and discern crucial factors by analyzing their causal relationships. The application of a fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method is utilized to evaluate and rank the factors associated with each identified issue. The results highlight that the spillage of poisonous emissions and contamination of water emerge as the foremost factors contributing to sustainability challenges in South India’s thermal power plant. The proposed approach effectively establishes causal connections and provides a ranking of these factors. The implications of these findings are significant for decision-makers and industrial managers, offering insights to guide corrective actions. Recommendations include the implementation of leak detection systems, continuous monitoring of emissions, installation of effective effluent treatment plants, and regular environmental impact assessments. This research provides a valuable framework for addressing sustainability concerns in thermal power plants, assisting decision-makers in making informed choices to enhance environmental performance and overall sustainability.