World Power PlantsWorld Power Plants

Boxberg Power Station2,585 MW Coal

Coal

Boxberg Power Station is a major coal-fired power generation facility located in Germany, with an impressive capacity of 2585 MW. Situated at coordinates 51.4163, 14.5619, this power plant plays a critical role in the country’s energy mix, particularly in supporting the stability of the local grid. Operated by Vattenfall Europe AG, Boxberg utilises advanced coal combustion technology, which allows it to generate electricity efficiently while adhering to stringent environmental regulations. As Germany continues to transition towards a more sustainable energy future, coal remains a key resource for ensuring energy security during this transformation period. The Boxberg Power Station’s operational context is shaped by Germany’s ambitious energy policies, which aim to reduce carbon emissions while phasing out nuclear energy and increasing the share of renewables. The facility’s strategic location in Saxony positions it as an essential contributor to the regional energy supply, particularly during peak demand times when renewable sources may not suffice. The ongoing modernisation efforts at Boxberg reflect the commitment to enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions, aligning with Germany's long-term energy goals. This power plant is not only crucial for meeting current energy demands but also plays a significant role in informing the future direction of coal use in the national energy landscape.

Capacity
2,585 MW

2.58 GW

Commissioning Year
1989

37 years old

Owner
Vattenfall Europe AG
Location
51.4163°, 14.5619°

Germany, Europe

Location

Coordinates:: 51.416300, 14.561900
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Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
10.21 Mt
12455 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
377.87 Mt
Over 37 years of operation
Closing Soon
2029
3 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
2.2M
cars per year
1.4M
homes per year
464.2M
trees to offset

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
Germany
Continent
Europe
Data Source
Global Power Station Database

GermanyEnergy Profile

1,483
Total Stations
151.8 GW
Total Capacity
CoalGasNuclearHydro
Top Fuels

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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