[Wooly]

And remember that the best power plants are only about 80% efficient. So that means that we will use 20% more energy to replace the diesel units.
Of course the Dems will have to give in to the enviros and vote against new power plants to offset this.

[76834]

Exactly, and since most power plants are located out of state dont forget the long distance transmission losses in the power lines.

[Robert A Cook PE]

No.

Best power plants are no more than 45-48& efficient.

Granted, direct-drive gas and diesel engines are even less efficient, but more than half the energy used goes out as waste: mainly waste heat, but also cooling water, pumps and compressors, secondary systems and friction, etc.