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Kainan Power Plant2,100 MW Gas

Gas

The Kainan Power Plant is a vital energy generation facility located in Japan, operating primarily on natural gas with a notable capacity of 2100 MW. Owned and operated by the Kansai Electric Power Company, the plant was commissioned in 1970 and has been a crucial player in the regional energy mix ever since. Situated at coordinates 34.1517, 135.1881, Kainan Power Plant is strategically located to cater to the energy needs of Japan's Kansai region, which is characterised by high population density and significant industrial activity. As a combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) facility, Kainan effectively utilises advanced gas technology to achieve high efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional coal-fired plants. This operational model aligns with Japan's energy policies, particularly following the aftermath of the Fukushima disaster, which led to a greater emphasis on energy security and a shift towards cleaner energy sources. The plant's ability to generate substantial MW capacity from natural gas is essential for balancing the local electricity grid, especially during peak demand periods when renewable energy sources may not suffice. The importance of Kainan Power Plant extends to its role in supporting Japan's transition towards sustainable energy practices, as the country seeks to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency. The facility not only contributes to the immediate energy supply but also exemplifies the efforts of Kansai Electric Power Company to innovate and invest in cleaner technologies. As Japan continues to navigate its energy landscape, the Kainan Power Plant remains a significant asset, demonstrating the potential of gas as a transitional fuel in the journey towards a more sustainable energy future. In conclusion, the Kainan Power Plant is an integral part of Japan's energy generation framework, reinforcing the nation's commitment to balancing energy demands while prioritising environmental sustainability.

Capacity
2,100 MW

2.10 GW

Commissioning Year
1970

56 years old

Owner
Kansai Electric Power Company
Location
34.1517°, 135.1881°

Japan, Asia

Location

Coordinates:: 34.151694, 135.188139
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
4.06 Mt
8278 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
227.15 Mt
Over 56 years of operation
Past Retirement
2000
26 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
881.8K
cars per year
540.8K
homes per year
184.4M
trees to offset

Estimates based on Gas emission factor (490 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (45%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Gas
Energy Source
Non-Renewable
Country
Japan
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Station Database

JapanEnergy Profile

664
Total Stations
358.7 GW
Total Capacity
NuclearGasCoalOil
Top Fuels

Gas Power Generation: An Overview of Technology, Impact, and Future Trends

Gas power generation is a pivotal component of the global energy landscape, with 4,378 gas power plants operational across 113 countries, contributing a total installed capacity of 1,731.2 gigawatts (GW). The United States leads in this sector, housing 1,881 plants with a capacity of 575.0 GW, followed by Russia, Iran, Japan, and China. This technology primarily utilises natural gas as a fuel source, which is burned to produce electricity through various processes, predominantly gas turbines and combined cycle systems.

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