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Carbón II1,400 MW Coal

Coal

Carbón II is a vital coal-fired power generation facility located in Mexico, contributing significantly to the energy landscape of the region. With a capacity of 1400 MW, this power plant plays a crucial role in the energy mix of the country, providing a substantial portion of the electricity required to power homes and industries across Mexico. Operated by the Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), Carbón II is situated at coordinates 28.4682, -100.7003, in the northern part of Mexico, an area rich in natural resources that supports the country's energy needs. The use of coal as a fuel type in this power plant reflects Mexico's ongoing reliance on traditional energy sources, while the facility is also equipped with technology designed to optimise efficiency and reduce emissions. The significance of Carbón II extends beyond its capacity; it underscores the importance of coal in Mexico's energy policy, which aims to balance economic growth with energy security. While the country is increasingly exploring renewable energy options, coal remains a critical component of the national grid, particularly in regions where other energy sources may not yet be viable. The operational capabilities of Carbón II allow it to provide reliable and consistent energy generation, which is essential for maintaining the stability of the local grid. As Mexico navigates its energy transition, Carbón II stands as a testament to the country’s ability to leverage its existing energy infrastructure while gradually integrating cleaner alternatives.

Capacity
1,400 MW

1.40 GW

Commissioning Year
2010

16 years old

Owner
CFE
Location
28.4682°, -100.7003°

Mexico, North America

Location

Coordinates:: 28.468200, -100.700300
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Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
5.53 Mt
6745 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
88.50 Mt
Over 16 years of operation
Est. Retirement
2050
24 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
1.2M
cars per year
737.5K
homes per year
251.4M
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
Mexico
Continent
North America
Data Source
Global Power Station Database

MexicoEnergy Profile

419
Total Stations
141.6 GW
Total Capacity
GasHydroOilCoal
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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