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Mitchell (WV)1,632.6 MW Coal

Coal

The Mitchell Power Plant, located in West Virginia, is a significant coal-fired power generation facility that contributes 1632.6 MW to the state's energy production capacity. Commissioned in 1970, this plant is operated by Kentucky Power Co and plays a critical role in the local energy mix. As coal remains a primary fuel for electricity generation in West Virginia, the Mitchell Power Plant helps ensure that the region maintains a stable and reliable power supply. Its long-standing operational history underscores its importance in supporting both local industry and residential energy needs, making it a cornerstone of the regional grid.

Capacity
1,632.6 MW

1.63 GW

Commissioning Year
1970

56 years old

Owner
Kentucky Power Co
Location
39.8297°, -80.8153°

United States of America, North America

Location

Coordinates:: 39.829700, -80.815300
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Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
6.45 Mt
7866 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
361.20 Mt
Over 56 years of operation
Past Retirement
2010
16 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
1.4M
cars per year
860.0K
homes per year
293.2M
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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