A review on real time implementation of soft computing techniques in thermal power plant

Thermal Power Plant is a common power plant that generates power by fuel-burning to produce electricity. Being a significant component of the energy sector, the Thermal Power Plant faces several issues that lead to reduced productivity. Conventional researchers have tried using different mechanisms for improvising the production of Thermal Power Plants in varied dimensions. Due to the diverse dimensions considered by existing works, the present review endeavours to afford a comprehensive summary of these works. To achieve this, the study reviews articles in the range (2019-2023) that are allied with the utility of SC methodologies (encompassing AI-ML (Machine Learning) and DL (Deep Learning) in enhancing the productivity of Thermal Power Plants by various dimensions. The conventional AI-based approaches are comparatively evaluated for effective contribution in improvising Thermal Power Plant production. Following this, a critical assessment encompasses the year-wise distribution and varied dimensions focussed by traditional studies in this area. This would support future researchers in determining the dimensions that have attained limited and high focus based on which appropriate research works can be performed. Finally, future suggestions and research gaps are included to offer new stimulus for further investigation of AI in Thermal Power Plants.