The transition of coal-based power generation from a primary to a supplementary and adjustable power source is evident. Coal-fired power units are confronted with a dual dilemma. They have to contend with the escalating demand for flexible regulation

while simultaneously facing heightened economic

environmental

and safety pressures. In order to conduct a comparative analysis of the peak-shaving performance of coal-fired power units

this paper constructs a comprehensive peak-shaving performance evaluation index system for coal-fired power units. This system incorporates elements of flexibility

economy

environmental protection

and safety. Additionally

it includes quantitative calculation models for each indicator. The study employs combined methodology of the Analytic Hierarchy Process and the Entropy Weight Method to ascertain the comprehensive weights of each indicator. Furthermore

it utilizes the technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS) to conduct an exhaustive evaluation of the unit's peak-shaving performance. The calculation results for different flexible coal-fired power units show that

under the calculation assumptions and scenarios in this study

the first-level indicator with the highest subjective weight is flexibility

followed by safety. Among the second-level indicators

those with higher weights are load regulation depth

the rate of change in high-load segment load

and startup time. In the case of 600 MW units

the unit demonstrating a load regulation depth of 80% exhibits the most effective comprehensive peak- shaving performance. When comparing units of varying capacities

the newly constructed 300 MW rapid start-stop unit outperforms others in comprehensive peak-shaving capabilities. For retrofitted units

the 300 MW subcritical retrofitted unit ranks highest in terms of comprehensive peak-shaving performance

with the 1 000 MW ultra-supercritical retrofitted unit as a close second. The findings can offer both theoretical insights and empirical data that support the optimization of flexibility retrofitting in coal-fired power units.