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Farakka Super Thermal Power Station2,100 MW Coal

Coal

The Farakka Super Thermal Power Station stands as a crucial pillar of energy generation in India, contributing significantly to the nation's coal-based power generation capacity. Located at coordinates 24.7740, 87.8938 in West Bengal, this power plant plays a vital role in ensuring a stable energy supply to the eastern region of India. With a remarkable capacity of 2100 MW, it is one of the largest coal-fired power generation facilities in the country, operated by NTPC, a leader in electricity generation in India. Commissioned in 1986, the Farakka Power Station utilises subcritical technology to convert coal into electricity, leveraging the abundant domestic coal resources that India possesses. This technology is characterised by its efficiency and relatively lower emissions compared to older coal technologies, aligning with India's efforts to modernise its energy infrastructure. The significance of the Farakka Super Thermal Power Station extends beyond its substantial output; it is strategically located to support the local grid, enhancing electricity availability for nearby industrial and residential areas. As India continues to evolve its energy policies, with a focus on increasing renewable energy sources while still relying heavily on fossil fuels, plants like Farakka are integral to balancing the energy mix. Its operational context is particularly important in light of India's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future. The Farakka Super Thermal Power Station not only exemplifies the country's reliance on coal but also reflects the broader narrative of energy transition in one of the world's most populous nations.

Capacity
2,100 MW

2.10 GW

Commissioning Year
1986

40 years old

Owner
NTPC
Location
24.7740°, 87.8938°

India, Asia

Location

Coordinates:: 24.773986, 87.893787
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Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
8.30 Mt
10118 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
331.86 Mt
Over 40 years of operation
Closing Soon
2026
Expected to retire this year
Annual emissions equivalent to
1.8M
cars per year
1.1M
homes per year
377.1M
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
India
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Station Database

IndiaEnergy Profile

1,805
Total Stations
513.9 GW
Total Capacity
CoalGasHydroSolar
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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