Aberthaw B is a prominent coal-fired power plant located in the United Kingdom, specifically at coordinates 51.3873, -3.4049. With a substantial capacity of 1,586 MW, this facility plays an integral role in the regional energy mix, contributing significantly to the energy needs of South Wales and beyond. Operated by RWE Npower Plc, Aberthaw B was commissioned to provide a reliable source of electricity using subcritical coal combustion technology, which has been a traditional method for power generation in the UK. Despite the ongoing transition towards cleaner energy sources, Aberthaw B remains a critical asset in terms of energy security, particularly during peak demand periods. The plant's operational context is shaped by the UK's evolving energy policies, which aim to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring a stable power supply. As part of this transition, Aberthaw B has been subject to various environmental regulations, prompting discussions about its future viability in a landscape increasingly dominated by renewable energy sources. Nonetheless, Aberthaw B continues to be a significant contributor to the UK’s energy generation, reflecting the complexities of balancing traditional power generation methods with sustainable practices.
1.59 GW
60 years old
United Kingdom, 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
United Kingdom- 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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