The Plutarco Elías Calles (Petacalco) power station is a significant coal-fired power generation facility located in Mexico. With a substantial capacity of 2778.4 MW, this plant plays a pivotal role in the country's energy infrastructure, helping to meet the growing electricity demands of both urban and rural areas. Operated by the Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), the power station utilizes advanced coal combustion technology, enabling efficient electricity generation while addressing environmental impacts associated with coal use. The facility's location at coordinates 17.9837° N latitude and -102.1154° W longitude positions it strategically along the Pacific coast of Mexico, an area that is vital for energy distribution across the country. The operational context of Plutarco Elías Calles is essential for the Mexican power grid, providing a steady supply of energy that supports various sectors, including manufacturing and residential consumption. The plant's contribution is particularly crucial given Mexico's energy policy, which emphasizes energy security and the gradual transition to cleaner energy sources. However, as coal remains a significant part of the energy mix, the plant illustrates the challenges faced by the country in balancing energy needs with environmental responsibilities. The Plutarco Elías Calles power station thus stands as a critical component of Mexico's energy strategy, highlighting the ongoing reliance on coal while also reflecting the nation's commitment to exploring sustainable energy solutions for the future.
2.78 GW
35 years old
Mexico, North America
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
Mexico- Continent
- North America
- 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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