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Chongqing Baihe power station600 MW Coal

Coal

Chongqing Baihe power station is a crucial asset in China's energy infrastructure, contributing to the nation’s growing demand for electricity with its robust 600 MW capacity. Operated by the China Power Investment Corporation (CPI), this coal-fired power generation facility has been operational since its commissioning in 2004. Located at coordinates 31.2691, 108.4561, the plant is situated in a region characterized by its dynamic industrial landscape, which is a key driver of energy consumption in southwestern China. Utilizing coal as its primary fuel source, Chongqing Baihe employs conventional steam generation technology. This process involves the combustion of coal, which generates steam to drive turbines, converting thermal energy into electrical power. The reliance on coal aligns with China’s broader energy policy, which has historically relied on this abundant resource to fuel economic growth. Although there are increasing initiatives to transition towards renewable energy, the Baihe power station continues to represent a significant portion of the energy mix within the local grid, addressing the immediate energy needs of the surrounding population and industries. The strategic location of the Chongqing Baihe power station enables it to effectively support the local energy demands in a rapidly developing urban area. The facility’s 600 MW output plays a vital role in maintaining grid stability, particularly during peak demand periods when electricity consumption surges. Given the region’s coordinates, the power station is positioned to harness the energy needs of both residential and commercial sectors, directly contributing to the local economy. As China navigates the complexities of energy generation, the reliance on coal remains a contentious issue amid growing environmental concerns. The Chongqing Baihe power station stands at the intersection of economic development and environmental sustainability, embodying the challenges faced by policymakers as they seek to balance energy security with the transition to cleaner energy sources. While there is a clear push towards diversifying the energy portfolio, the plant’s ongoing role in energy generation underscores its importance in meeting the current demands of the local grid. In conclusion, the Chongqing Baihe power station is a pivotal coal power plant that highlights the significance of coal in China's energy generation framework, positioning itself as a key player in the nation's quest for reliable electricity.

Capacity
600 MW
Commissioning Year
2004

22 years old

Owner
China Power Investment Corporation (CPI)
Location
31.2691°, 108.4561°

China, Asia

Location
Coordinates:: 31.269100, 108.456100
Open in Google Maps
Technical Details
Primary Fuel Type
Coal
Energy Source
Non-Renewable
Country
China
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database
Chongqing Baihe Power Station: A Key Player in China's Energy Landscape

The Chongqing Baihe Power Station, located in the municipality of Chongqing, China, is a significant coal-fired power generation facility with a total installed capacity of 600 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 2004, the power station is owned and operated by the China Power Investment Corporation (CPI), a major player in China's energy sector. The facility utilizes coal as its primary fuel source, which is abundant in the region and plays a crucial role in meeting the growing energy demands of both the local economy and the broader national grid.

As one of the largest coal-fired power plants in the southwestern region of China, the Chongqing Baihe Power Station contributes significantly to the country's energy mix, which has historically leaned heavily on coal. With China's rapid industrialization and urbanization, the demand for electricity has surged, making coal an essential fuel for ensuring energy security and stability. The station plays a vital role in supporting the electricity supply for Chongqing and surrounding areas, facilitating economic growth and development.

Technically, the coal used at the Baihe Power Station is sourced from local coal mines, which helps reduce transportation costs and supports the regional economy. The facility incorporates various technologies aimed at improving efficiency and reducing emissions, although it still operates within the framework of traditional coal combustion processes. The reliance on coal has been a point of contention in the context of climate change, as coal combustion is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2). The environmental impact of the Baihe Power Station includes air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which contribute to smog and respiratory issues in the surrounding communities.

In response to increasing awareness of environmental issues and government regulations, the Chinese government has been promoting cleaner energy sources and technologies. While the Baihe Power Station continues to operate, there are ongoing discussions about transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, to mitigate the environmental impact associated with coal-fired power generation.

Regionally, the Chongqing Baihe Power Station is significant not only for its energy output but also for its role in supporting local industries and providing employment opportunities. Its operations contribute to the overall economic development of Chongqing, a major urban center in southwestern China. As the energy landscape in China evolves, the future of the Baihe Power Station will likely reflect the broader transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions while balancing the immediate needs of energy supply and economic growth.

ChinaEnergy Profile
4,431
Total Plants
1617.1 GW
Total Capacity
CoalHydroNuclearGas
Top Fuels
Understanding Coal as a Power Generation Energy Source

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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