The Datong power station, located in China, is a significant coal-fired power generation facility with a capacity of 3990 MW. This power plant plays a pivotal role in the country's energy landscape, contributing substantially to the national electricity supply. Commissioned in 2001 and operated by Guodian Shanxi Branch Co Ltd, Datong underscores China's reliance on coal as a primary energy source, particularly in the context of rapid industrialisation and urbanisation. As one of the major coal power facilities in the Shanxi province, the plant is strategically positioned to leverage the abundant coal resources in the region. Situated at coordinates 40.0279, 113.2933, Datong serves not only the local area but also feeds into the broader grid, supporting energy needs across multiple provinces. The significance of this facility is magnified by its ability to provide reliable electricity to both residential and industrial consumers, fuelling economic growth and enhancing living standards in the region. The technology utilised at Datong involves advanced coal combustion techniques, which are designed to optimise efficiency and reduce emissions. The plant employs pulverised coal combustion technology, a common method that allows for effective energy conversion while maximising the output from the coal used. As such, Datong is a key player in the ongoing discussions about energy generation in China, particularly regarding the balance between coal reliance and environmental sustainability. While the Datong power station remains an essential contributor to China's energy infrastructure, it also faces challenges associated with the global shift towards cleaner energy sources. The facility exemplifies the complexities of transitioning to a more sustainable energy future while meeting the immediate energy demands of one of the world’s largest economies. As China continues to explore innovative solutions to reduce its carbon footprint, the Datong power station stands as a testament to the duality of energy production and the ongoing evolution of energy policies.
3.99 GW
25 years old
China, Asia
Location
Estimates based on Coal emission factor (820 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (55%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
China- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Station Database
Nearby Power Plants
Coal as a Power Generation Energy Source: An Overview
Coal has been a cornerstone of electricity generation for over a century, accounting for a significant share of global energy production. As of now, there are approximately 2,608 coal power plants worldwide, distributed across 74 countries, with a total installed capacity of around 2,257.3 gigawatts (GW). The leading countries in coal power generation include China, which operates 1,018 plants with a capacity of 1,038.0 GW, followed by India with 287 plants at 253.3 GW, and the United States with 291 plants at 252.0 GW. Other notable contributors include Germany and Japan, which have 130 and 61 plants, respectively, with capacities of 76.8 GW and 63.9 GW.
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