Bełchatów Power Plant is a significant coal-fired power generation facility located in Poland, contributing immensely to the national energy mix. With a remarkable capacity of 5,472 MW, it stands as one of the largest coal power plants in Europe and plays a crucial role in ensuring energy security for the region. Operated by Polska Grupa Energetyczna SA, Bełchatów utilises subcritical technology to efficiently convert coal into electricity, thus maximizing energy generation while maintaining operational viability. The plant's infrastructure is strategically situated at coordinates 51.2679, 19.3265 in the Łódź Voivodeship, a region known for its industrial base and energy demands. The facility is pivotal to the local grid, supplying a substantial portion of the electricity consumed in Poland, particularly in the central and western parts of the country. In the context of Poland's energy policy, Bełchatów serves as a backbone for the nation’s reliance on coal, which has been a traditional fuel source due to its abundance and cost-effectiveness. However, as Poland transitions towards a more sustainable energy future, the plant faces pressures to reduce its carbon footprint, leading to discussions about modernization and integration of cleaner technologies. Overall, Bełchatów Power Plant remains a vital component of Poland's energy landscape, balancing economic requirements with the evolving environmental policies.
5.47 GW
33 years old
Poland, 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
Poland- 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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