West Burton is a key coal-fired power plant located in the United Kingdom, with a robust capacity of 2012 MW. This facility plays an essential role in the energy generation landscape, supplying significant amounts of electricity to the local and national grids. Operated by EDF Energy, West Burton utilises traditional coal combustion technology, which has been a cornerstone of electricity production for many years. The plant's strategic location at coordinates 53.3604 latitude and -0.8102 longitude positions it well to meet the demands of the surrounding areas, contributing to the stability and reliability of the electricity supply. Since its inception, West Burton has been instrumental in supporting the UK's energy infrastructure, particularly during peak demand periods. However, as the UK moves towards ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the share of renewable energy sources, the role of coal-fired power plants like West Burton is being reevaluated. The facility's significance in the current energy policy context highlights the challenges faced by coal in an era where cleaner energy alternatives are sought. Nevertheless, West Burton remains a vital component of the UK's energy mix, reflecting both the ongoing reliance on coal for electricity generation and the transition towards a more sustainable energy future.
2.01 GW
13 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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