Yeongheung is a prominent coal-fired power generation facility located in South Korea, with a substantial capacity of 5080 MW. Operated by Korea South East Power (KOSEP), this power plant plays a critical role in the country’s energy generation landscape, where coal remains a significant fuel source. Situated at coordinates 37.2369° N, 126.4361° E, Yeongheung serves not only the local community but also contributes to the national grid, providing essential electricity to meet the needs of both residential and industrial consumers. The technology used at Yeongheung primarily involves traditional coal combustion, which efficiently converts the chemical energy stored in coal into thermal energy. This thermal energy is then utilised to produce steam that drives turbines for electricity generation. As South Korea continues to develop its energy policy, the Yeongheung power plant exemplifies the ongoing reliance on coal, even as the government aims to transition towards more sustainable energy solutions. The operational context of this facility is heavily influenced by South Korea’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, compelling energy producers like Yeongheung to explore options for cleaner technologies and efficiency improvements. Despite these challenges, the plant’s significant capacity ensures that it remains an essential component of the national energy infrastructure, particularly in times of high demand. Overall, Yeongheung stands as a vital contributor to South Korea’s energy generation, highlighting the complexities of balancing reliable energy supply with environmental considerations in a rapidly evolving energy market.
5.08 GW
16 years old
South Korea, Asia
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 Korea- Continent
- Asia
- 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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