World Power PlantsWorld Power Plants

Peterhead Power Station2,177 MW Gas

Gas

Peterhead Power Station is a significant gas-fired power generation facility located in the United Kingdom, boasting a capacity of 2177 MW. Operated by SSE Thermal, this power plant plays an essential role in the national energy framework, providing reliable electricity to the local grid. Situated at coordinates 57.4779, -1.7882, Peterhead is strategically positioned to meet the energy demands of both residential and commercial users in the region. The plant utilises modern combined cycle gas turbine technology, which enhances efficiency by utilising both gas and steam turbines to generate power. This technology not only maximises electricity output but also minimises greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuel power generation methods. Peterhead's operational significance is further underscored by the UK's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning towards greener energy sources. As the UK energy policy evolves, gas power plants like Peterhead are playing a crucial role in providing baseload power while renewable energy sources are integrated into the grid. The substantial MW capacity of Peterhead allows it to deliver crucial support during peak demand periods, ensuring that the energy needs of the population are met reliably. The plant's operational context is reflective of the broader energy strategy in the UK, which aims to phase out coal and promote cleaner energy technologies. As the energy landscape shifts, Peterhead Power Station remains a vital asset in maintaining grid stability and ensuring that energy supply meets the demands of a growing economy. In conclusion, Peterhead exemplifies how gas power generation can serve as a bridge in the transition to a more sustainable energy future while continuing to provide essential power to consumers.

Capacity
2,177 MW

2.18 GW

Commissioning Year
1994

32 years old

Owner
SSE Thermal
Location
57.4779°, -1.7882°

United Kingdom, Europe

Location

Coordinates:: 57.477921, -1.788184
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Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
4.21 Mt
8582 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
134.56 Mt
Over 32 years of operation
Past Retirement
2024
2 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
914.1K
cars per year
560.7K
homes per year
191.1M
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
United Kingdom
Continent
Europe
Data Source
Global Power Station Database

United KingdomEnergy Profile

3,024
Total Stations
155.3 GW
Total Capacity
GasWindNuclearCoal
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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