Niederaussem power station, located in Germany, is a prominent coal-fired power generation facility owned and operated by RWE Power AG. With an impressive capacity of 3,430 MW, this plant has been a significant contributor to the European energy landscape since its commissioning in 1979. Situated at coordinates 50.9930, 6.6685, Niederaussem plays a crucial role in providing a stable supply of electricity to the regional grid, particularly during periods of high demand. The technology employed at this power station includes advanced coal combustion processes, aimed at maximising efficiency while minimising emissions, reflecting Germany's ongoing efforts to balance energy generation with environmental considerations. As Europe transitions toward a more sustainable energy future, Niederaussem remains an important player in the energy mix, although it faces increasing pressure to adapt to stricter environmental regulations and a shifting market towards renewable sources. The operational context of this power station is influenced by Germany's commitment to phasing out coal in favour of cleaner alternatives, yet it continues to serve as a vital backup energy source, ensuring reliability in the energy supply. Overall, Niederaussem power station encapsulates the challenges and opportunities facing coal-fired plants in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.
3.43 GW
47 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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