Medupi Power Station stands as a crucial coal-fired power plant in South Africa, contributing significantly to the national energy generation landscape. Located at coordinates -23.7048, 27.5589, this facility is one of the largest of its kind in Africa, boasting a remarkable capacity of 4764 MW. Owned and operated by Eskom, South Africa's primary electricity supplier, Medupi plays a vital role in addressing the country's energy needs and supporting its economic growth. Commissioned in 2015, this plant employs advanced supercritical technology, which enhances efficiency and reduces emissions compared to traditional coal-fired power generation methods. The adoption of such technology aligns with South Africa's energy policies aimed at improving energy efficiency and transitioning towards more sustainable energy solutions. Situated in the Limpopo Province, Medupi Power Station not only bolsters the local grid but also supports the broader national grid, providing electricity to millions of households and businesses across the country. The facility's strategic position allows it to utilise local coal resources, thus ensuring energy security and economic viability. Medupi’s contribution to the energy mix is essential, especially in a country where coal has historically been a dominant fuel source. As South Africa continues to navigate the transition towards renewable energy, Medupi remains a key player in the current energy framework, providing reliable electricity while efforts to enhance renewable capacity are underway.
4.76 GW
11 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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