What can be a consequence of low thermal efficiency in gas turbines?

Low thermal efficiency in gas turbines typically leads to higher operational costs. When a gas turbine has low efficiency, it requires more fuel to produce the same amount of power compared to a more efficient system. This increase in fuel consumption directly translates to higher operational expenses, as fuel is one of the primary costs associated with running gas turbines.

Conversely, lower fuel consumption would be associated with higher thermal efficiency, meaning it isn't a direct consequence of low efficiency. Similarly, reduced noise levels and improved reliability are not typically linked to thermal efficiency; rather, they depend on other factors such as the design and maintenance of the turbine. Thus, higher operational costs due to inefficient fuel usage is clearly the consequence of low thermal efficiency in gas turbines.