Ranking as the 143rd largest power generation facility in Australia, the Newman Iron Ore Mine stands as a notable contributor to the region's energy landscape. With a capacity of 170 MW, this gas-fired plant, operated by Alinta Energy, plays a critical role in supporting local mining operations while also feeding into the broader Australian electricity grid. Gas power plants like Newman Iron Ore Mine, which falls within the 57th position among the country's 175 gas facilities, highlight the diverse energy portfolio needed to support Australia's growing demand for electricity. The facility utilizes advanced gas turbine technology, which allows for efficient conversion of natural gas into electrical energy. This capability is essential in a country where renewable energy sources, particularly solar, dominate the energy mix, making up a significant portion of the 157,141 MW total capacity from 678 plants nationwide. Gas plants like Newman Iron Ore Mine are crucial, especially during peak demand periods when solar generation may not suffice, ensuring the stability of the power supply in this remote region of Western Australia. Geographically, the Newman Iron Ore Mine is located within proximity to the Newman Alinta Power Station, which boasts a slightly higher capacity of 178 MW, underscoring the importance of gas as a primary fuel source in this area. Together, these plants create a local energy cluster that enhances the reliability of electricity supply for local industries and communities. Given that Newman Iron Ore Mine contributes approximately 0.11% of the national capacity, it plays a small yet significant role in the overall energy framework of Australia, reflecting the intricate balance of energy generation required in a country rich in renewable resources. Operated by Alinta Energy, the Newman Iron Ore Mine has become an integral part of the energy strategy in Western Australia since its inception. The operational synergy between the mine's energy needs and the power generation capacity ensures that local mining activities can continue unabated, fostering economic growth in the region. As Australia continues to expand its renewable energy initiatives, the role of gas plants like Newman Iron Ore Mine will be pivotal in bridging the transition towards a more sustainable energy future. The implications for both the local economy and the environment are profound; as the country strives for a balanced energy portfolio, facilities such as this one provide the necessary support to mitigate the intermittency of renewable energy sources, reinforcing the reliability and resilience of the Australian electricity grid.
16 years old
Australia, Oceania
- Primary Fuel Type
- Gas
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Australia- Continent
- Oceania
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Gas power generation is a significant component of the global energy landscape, characterized by the use of natural gas to produce electricity. This process typically involves either gas turbines or combined cycle gas plants. In a gas turbine, compressed air is mixed with natural gas and ignited, producing high-temperature exhaust gases that spin a turbine connected to a generator. Combined cycle plants enhance efficiency by utilizing both gas and steam turbines. After the gas turbine generates electricity, the waste heat is used to produce steam, which drives a steam turbine, thereby maximizing energy extraction from the fuel.
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