Kraftwerk Weisweiler is a significant coal-fired power generation facility located in Germany, boasting a capacity of 2361 MW. Operated by RWE, this plant is an integral part of Germany's energy mix, contributing to the country's electricity supply and supporting the local grid. The facility utilises traditional coal combustion technology, which involves the burning of coal to generate steam that drives turbines for electricity production. This method of energy generation, while effective, has been increasingly scrutinised in light of Germany's ambitious energy transition policy, known as the Energiewende, which aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy sources. Situated at coordinates 50.8390° N and 6.3217° E, Kraftwerk Weisweiler is positioned in the North Rhine-Westphalia region, an area historically known for its extensive coal mining and energy generation activities. The plant's location allows it to play a crucial role in stabilising the regional energy supply amidst the ongoing transition towards more sustainable forms of energy. As Germany continues to phase out coal in favour of renewable sources, Kraftwerk Weisweiler finds itself at the crossroads of traditional energy production and the future of energy generation in the country. The facility's operational context is shaped by evolving energy policies and public sentiment around climate change, making it a focal point for discussions on energy sustainability and security in Europe.
2.36 GW
54 years old
Germany, Europe
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
Germany- Continent
- Europe
- 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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