Most electrical energy in the United States is generated in large-scale power cycles
through conversion of thermal energy to mechanical energy, which is then converted
to electrical energy. Assume a thermal efficiency of 0.35 for conversion of thermal to
mechanical energy, and an efficiency of 0.95 for conversion of mechanical to electrical energy. Line losses in the distribution system amount to 20%. If the cost of fuel
for the power cycle is $4.00 GJ−1, estimate the cost of electricity delivered to the customer in $ per kWh. Ignore operating costs, profits, and taxes. Compare this number
with that found on a typical electric bill.