Somerton Power Station ranks as the 143rd largest power generation facility in Australia, featuring a capacity of 170 MW that represents about 0.11% of the national total capacity of 157,141 MW. As a gas-fired power station, it is positioned within a competitive landscape, being the 57th largest among 175 gas facilities in the country. The technology employed at Somerton allows for efficient and responsive generation, vital for meeting the fluctuating demands of the electricity grid, particularly as Australia transitions to a greater reliance on renewable energy sources. Located in a region with a variety of nearby power plants, Somerton is surrounded by other gas and waste energy generation facilities. Notably, Newport stands out with its substantial capacity of 500 MW, while Laverton North provides 312 MW, demonstrating the significant role of gas in the local energy mix. The proximity of other gas plants illustrates the importance of natural gas as a flexible energy source, particularly in supporting the integration of renewables and ensuring grid stability during peak periods. Australia's energy profile is characterized by a diverse range of generation technologies, with solar power leading the charge as the dominant fuel type. The presence of 678 total power plants across the country highlights the robust infrastructure in place to meet energy demands. Somerton’s contribution, though modest compared to larger facilities, is critical in offering reliable and dispatchable power, especially as the country aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while transitioning to cleaner energy solutions. Operated by AGL Energy, Somerton Power Station has been a part of the Australian energy landscape for years, contributing to economic growth and energy security. As the nation continues to evolve towards a more sustainable energy future, this gas facility will remain integral in balancing the energy mix, providing essential support to intermittent renewable sources while helping to maintain grid reliability.
25 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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