In the calculation of any power plant’s output, Gross Heat Rate is defined as an expression of the total energy that is produced by the plant per one unit of mass of fuel. This is before all the parasitic loads are accounted for, the effect of either a calculation of Net Heat Rate or the power, which actually goes out the door, per unit of mass of fuel. The gross heat rate considers the efficiency losses and power associated with the entire power generation cycle, involving the feed water circulation system, the boiler, condensate recovery system, fuel delivery and water treatment.