Greglocock,
These slow speed diesels are mostly used in the marine industry. The steam generated has many variations of use. To drive a turbo gen, turbo pump. cargo heating, accomodation heating,et al. The engine coolant can also be diverted to cargo or accomodation heating.
In all, i have seen efficiencies quoted above 80% overall per lb of fuel energy burned.
Also of course they can burn the crudest and cheapest fuel Bunker C.
Doctor Diesel in his early experiments used pulverised coal in his first engine ,built by MAN.
Offshore Engineering&Design