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Ras Al-Khair Power and Desalination Plant2,400 MW Gas

Gas

The Ras Al-Khair Power and Desalination Plant stands as a vital component of Saudi Arabia's energy generation landscape, particularly in its efforts towards diversifying energy sources. Located at the coordinates 27.5367, 49.1389, this facility harnesses natural gas to produce an impressive 2400 MW capacity, positioning it as one of the largest gas-fired power plants in the region. Operated by the Saline Water Conversion Corporation, Ras Al-Khair plays a crucial role not only in electricity generation but also in desalinating seawater, addressing the pressing water demand in this arid region. The plant's gas technology is known for its efficiency and lower carbon emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels, making it a strategic asset in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the national mix while reducing dependence on oil. As the country transitions towards a more sustainable energy framework, facilities like Ras Al-Khair are central to meeting both energy and water needs, thereby enhancing the stability of the local grid and supporting economic development in the region.

Capacity
2,400 MW

2.40 GW

Commissioning Year
2013

13 years old

Owner
Saline Water Conversion Corporation
Location
27.5367°, 49.1389°

Saudi Arabia, Asia

Location

Coordinates:: 27.536667, 49.138889
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Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
4.64 Mt
9461 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
60.27 Mt
Over 13 years of operation
Est. Retirement
2043
17 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
1.0M
cars per year
618.1K
homes per year
210.7M
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
Saudi Arabia
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Station Database

Saudi ArabiaEnergy Profile

163
Total Stations
144.3 GW
Total Capacity
GasOilSolarWind
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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