Ranked as the 56th largest power generation facility in Chile, Termoelectrica Hornitos (CTH) plays a significant role in the country's energy landscape, contributing 0.49% to the national capacity with its 153.9 MW coal-fired output. While coal is becoming less favored in the global energy transition, Hornitos remains a noteworthy player in a nation where hydroelectric power dominates, accounting for a staggering portion of the 31,543 MW total capacity spread across 383 plants. Located near the coastal city of La Serena, Hornitos is not entirely isolated, with several nearby plants enhancing the regional energy mix. These include the Quilapilún solar plant, which has a capacity of 117.4 MW, and a cluster of hydroelectric plants such as Hornitos (61 MW), Blanco (53 MW), Los Quilos (40 MW), and Juncal (29 MW). This diverse array of nearby facilities showcases the shift towards renewable energy sources, providing a stark contrast to Hornitos' coal reliance. Despite being the 12th largest coal facility out of 14 in Chile, its capacity is relatively modest compared to the average national capacity of approximately 82 MW per plant. This highlights the plant's unique positioning within a rapidly changing energy sector. Owned and operated by Hornitos, the facility is a key component of the region's energy infrastructure, which is essential for maintaining grid stability. As Chile moves towards a more sustainable energy future, Hornitos faces increasing scrutiny and pressure to adapt to cleaner technologies. The plant's role in the local economy is also significant, as it provides jobs and supports ancillary services. Looking ahead, Hornitos may need to consider transitioning to alternative energy sources to align with national policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability. The evolution of this facility will be crucial not only for its operational longevity but also for the broader environmental goals set by the Chilean government.
Chile, South America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Chile- Continent
- South America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Coal has long been a cornerstone of electricity generation worldwide, with a significant presence in the global energy landscape. As of recent data, there are approximately 2,608 coal power plants operating across 74 countries, boasting a total installed capacity of 2,257.3 gigawatts (GW). The leading nations in coal power generation include China, with 1,018 plants generating 1,038.0 GW, India with 287 plants at 253.3 GW, and the United States with 291 plants producing 252.0 GW. Other notable contributors include Germany and Japan, with 130 plants and 76.8 GW, and 61 plants and 63.9 GW, respectively. This widespread utilization reflects the essential role coal has played in the development of industrial and residential power systems globally.
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