Camden power station is a cornerstone of South Africa's energy generation, playing a critical role in the country's power supply. Located at coordinates -26.6201, 30.0911, this coal-fired powerhouse was commissioned in 1968 and boasts a substantial capacity of 1600 MW. Operated by Eskom, Camden utilises traditional coal combustion technology, which has been a mainstay in South Africa's energy infrastructure. The power station is strategically positioned to serve the regional grid, providing essential electricity to meet both residential and industrial needs. As South Africa grapples with increasing energy demands and the need for reliability, Camden power station remains an integral part of the energy mix, contributing significantly to national energy security. The operational context of Camden highlights the challenges faced in the transition towards renewable energy, as the country continues to rely on coal for a significant portion of its electricity. Despite the global shift towards greener alternatives, Camden's role in stabilising the grid and ensuring a consistent power supply underscores its importance in South Africa's ongoing energy landscape.
1.60 GW
58 years old
South Africa, Africa
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
South Africa- Continent
- Africa
- 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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