The World Energy Council's Energy Trilemma Index ranks nations on their ability to provide energy that is secure, accessible and affordable, and environmentally sustainable. Although coal‐based thermal power generators significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions worldwide, they are likely to remain a viable source of electricity for several decades, especially in developing countries such as India. Adapting current business excellence models to address factors that are essential to improving the efficiency of thermal power generators can help them improve the reliability and cost of the products and services they provide while minimizing environmental impact.