Ranked as the 49th largest power generation facility in Chile, Termoelectrica Tarapaca holds a significant spot in the nation’s energy landscape, contributing 0.55% to the total capacity. With a generation capacity of 172.2 MW, it stands as the 11th largest among 14 coal plants in the country, a notable achievement given the dominance of hydroelectric power in Chile's energy profile. The facility primarily utilizes coal, with oil as a secondary fuel, which positions it distinctly in a country where hydroelectricity reigns supreme, accounting for a vast majority of the national energy supply. Termoelectrica Tarapaca is located in the Tarapacá region, approximately 20 km from the Tarapacá Power Plant, which has a much smaller capacity of 20.044 MW. This proximity underscores the plant's role in bolstering local energy production, even as it is dwarfed by the country’s larger hydroelectric plants. Chile has a total of 383 power generation facilities with a cumulative capacity of 31,543 MW, with hydroelectric sources making up the lion's share of this figure. In terms of national context, Termoelectrica Tarapaca’s coal reliance is increasingly scrutinized in light of the global shift towards cleaner energy sources, yet it remains a vital asset for energy diversification and grid stability in the region. Owned and operated by CELTA, this facility has been a part of the Chilean energy fabric for years. As the energy sector continues to evolve, Termoelectrica Tarapaca’s role may become more critical in supporting the transition towards renewable energy, while also addressing the challenges of energy security and sustainability.
21 years old
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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