The J K Spruce Power Plant plays a significant role in the energy landscape of the United States, particularly in Texas. This coal-fired power generation facility, commissioned in 2003, boasts an impressive capacity of 1,444 MW, making it a crucial asset for the City of San Antonio and the surrounding areas. As a coal-powered plant, J K Spruce utilises traditional fossil fuel technology, contributing to the thermal generation of electricity by burning coal to produce steam that drives turbines. This method has been a cornerstone of energy generation in the U.S. for decades, although it faces increasing scrutiny due to environmental concerns. Located at coordinates 29.3097, -98.3203, the plant is strategically positioned to support the local grid, ensuring a consistent and reliable power supply to meet the demands of a growing population. The J K Spruce Power Plant is particularly vital for maintaining energy security in the region, especially during peak demand periods. The facility's output significantly contributes to San Antonio’s electricity needs, thus reinforcing the importance of coal in the state's energy mix. As Texas continues to diversify its energy portfolio with a growing emphasis on renewable sources, coal plants like J K Spruce remain essential for grid stability and reliability. The operator, the City of San Antonio, is committed to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, navigating the challenges posed by climate change and regulatory pressures. The ongoing evolution of energy policies in the U.S. also affects the coal sector, pushing plants like J K Spruce to adopt cleaner technologies and practices. Nonetheless, this power generation facility remains a linchpin in the region's electricity infrastructure, providing essential energy generation capabilities to support both residential and commercial consumers.
1.44 GW
23 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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