World Power PlantsWorld Power Plants

Bowen3,498.6 MW Coal

Coal

The Bowen Power Plant, located in the United States of America, is a significant player in the regional energy landscape, primarily utilising coal as its fuel source. With an impressive capacity of 3,498.6 MW, this facility is pivotal in meeting the energy demands of the Southeastern United States. Operated by Georgia Power Co, Bowen was commissioned in 1973 and has since been a cornerstone of the local grid, providing reliable electricity to millions of households and businesses. The plant's coal-fired technology incorporates advanced methods to optimise energy generation while adhering to environmental regulations. Its strategic location at coordinates 34.1256, -84.9222 positions it advantageously within the energy infrastructure of the region, contributing to both base-load and peak-load power supply. Bowen's operational context is framed by the ongoing transition toward cleaner energy sources; however, coal remains a substantial component of the American energy mix, particularly in areas where alternative energy sources are still developing. The facility's ability to generate such substantial MW capacity underscores its importance in fulfilling energy needs, especially during periods of high demand. As part of Georgia Power's portfolio, Bowen plays a critical role in ensuring grid reliability and stability, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources as they rise in prominence. Overall, Bowen Power Plant remains a vital asset to the energy generation landscape, balancing the complexities of energy production and environmental stewardship.

Capacity
3,498.6 MW

3.50 GW

Commissioning Year
1973

53 years old

Owner
Georgia Power Co
Location
34.1256°, -84.9222°

United States of America, North America

Location

Coordinates:: 34.125600, -84.922200
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Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
13.82 Mt
16856 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
732.57 Mt
Over 53 years of operation
Past Retirement
2013
13 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
3.0M
cars per year
1.8M
homes per year
628.3M
trees to offset

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 AmericaEnergy Profile

10,047
Total Stations
1386.4 GW
Total Capacity
GasCoalNuclearHydro
Top Fuels

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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