World Power PlantsWorld Power Plants

Chesterfield1,499.5 MW Coal

Coal

Chesterfield is a significant coal-fired power generation facility located in the United States, with an impressive capacity of 1499.5 MW. Operated by Virginia Electric & Power Co, this power plant utilises coal as its primary fuel source, which has traditionally been a cornerstone of the American energy sector. The facility is positioned at coordinates 37.3822, -77.3833, in a region that has historically relied on fossil fuels for electricity generation. Chesterfield plays a crucial role in supplying power to the local grid, ensuring that the energy needs of the surrounding communities and industries are met. Despite the growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, Chesterfield continues to be a vital contributor to the energy mix in Virginia, providing a stable and reliable power supply. The operational context of the plant reflects ongoing changes in energy policy, as the United States transitions towards cleaner energy solutions. However, Chesterfield's significant capacity underscores the continuing importance of coal in the immediate term, particularly as the nation balances energy demands with environmental considerations. In addition to coal, the plant has the capability to utilise oil and gas as secondary and tertiary fuels, providing operational flexibility in a dynamic energy market. The facility, commissioned in 1974, has adapted over the years to incorporate more efficient technologies, aiming to reduce emissions and improve overall performance. Chesterfield's role in the Virginia energy landscape cannot be understated, as it remains an essential source of electricity, contributing to the economic stability and energy security of the region.

Capacity
1,499.5 MW

1.50 GW

Commissioning Year
1974

52 years old

Owner
Virginia Electric & Power Co
Location
37.3822°, -77.3833°

United States of America, North America

Location

Coordinates:: 37.382200, -77.383300
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Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
5.92 Mt
7225 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
308.06 Mt
Over 52 years of operation
Past Retirement
2014
12 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
1.3M
cars per year
789.9K
homes per year
269.3M
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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