What is the main operating cost typically associated with a coal-fired power plant?

The main operating cost typically associated with a coal-fired power plant is the cost of fuel, which is coal. Fuel costs typically represent a significant portion of the total operating expenses, often ranging from 40% to 70% or even higher, depending on the price of coal and the plant's efficiency. Other operating costs include maintenance and repair expenses, labor costs, waste disposal costs (e.g., ash disposal), and costs associated with environmental compliance (e.g., reagent costs for NOx and SO2 control). However, the cost of coal is generally the largest single operating expense for a coal-fired power plant. As coal prices fluctuate, the operating costs of the power plant can vary significantly, impacting its profitability.