Belews Creek is a coal-fired power generation facility located in the United States, with a substantial capacity of 2491.2 MW. Operated by Duke Energy Carolinas LLC, this power plant has been a vital part of North Carolina's energy landscape since its commissioning in 1975. Situated at coordinates 36.2811, -80.0603, Belews Creek is strategically positioned to serve the energy needs of the surrounding regions and contribute to the state’s energy mix. The plant primarily utilises subcritical steam generation technology, which, while being less efficient than newer supercritical systems, remains a significant source of electricity for the area. As coal power continues to play a role in the U.S. energy sector, Belews Creek serves as a reminder of the country’s historical reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation. However, the facility is also part of the ongoing discussions surrounding energy transition and the move towards more sustainable power sources. In the context of North Carolina's energy policy, which increasingly focuses on diversifying the energy portfolio and reducing emissions, Belews Creek plays a critical role in balancing the immediate energy demands while the state explores cleaner alternatives. This power plant not only supplies reliable electricity but also stands at a crossroads, reflecting the shifting dynamics of energy generation in the United States.
2.49 GW
51 years old
United States of America, North America
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 States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Station Database
United States of America — Energy Profile
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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