The Shanghai Caojing Jinshan is a key infrastructure asset in China's power generation grid, located on the continent of Asia. Designated as a fossil fuel electricity generation station, the facility features an installed capacity of 600 MW. Its primary operation relies on harnessing gas energy resources to generate bulk electricity. Operational management and ownership of the facility are handled by the Shanghai Caojing Thermal Power Co. Ltd., which oversees daily maintenance and grid dispatch integration. The facility was officially connected to the commercial grid in 2006, since which it has maintained regular output, playing a structured role in domestic power supply security. In terms of domestic production capacity within China, Shanghai Caojing Jinshan occupies the #53 position among all operational gas power plants. Its 600 MW capacity represents a 0.93% share of China's total installed gas generating capacity, which currently stands at 64,706 MW. The largest operational gas installation in China is the Black Point Power Station with an output of 2,500 MW, making the Shanghai Caojing Jinshan approximately 4.2 times smaller by comparison. Across all fuel types and electricity generation technologies country-wide, this facility accounts for 0.0371% of China's aggregate generation capacity of 1,617,141 MW. Based on historical capacity factors characteristic of gas power plants (modeled at 40% for analysis), the facility's expected annual electricity generation is calculated at approximately 2,102,400 MWh. Applying domestic consumption statistics where an average household in China consumes 3 MWh of electricity annually, this level of production is sufficient to meet the energy demands of roughly 700,800 homes. By utilizing traditional thermal power processes, the station delivers reliable dispatchable energy to the grid, supporting grid resilience during periods of low renewable resource availability and satisfying industrial base-load demands. The physical site of the station is located at geographic coordinates 30.7900° latitude and 121.4500° longitude. Analysis of local grid infrastructure shows a density of other assets within a 50-kilometer radius. These nearby facilities include the Jiaxing Power Station (coal-fired, 5000 MW), the Shanghai Caojing power station (coal-fired, 2000 MW), the Wujing power station (coal-fired, 1800 MW), representing a cluster of localized power assets. This geographic placement is vital for reinforcing regional distribution infrastructure and minimizing transmission line losses across this sector of China.
20 years old
China, Asia
Location
Estimates based on Gas emission factor (490 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (45%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Gas
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
China- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Overview of Shanghai Caojing Jinshan Power Plant
The Shanghai Caojing Jinshan power plant is a significant energy facility located in the Jinshan District of Shanghai, China. With a generation capacity of 600 megawatts (MW), this gas-fired power plant plays a crucial role in supporting the region's energy demands and contributes to the overall stability of China's energy sector. Owned and operated by Shanghai Caojing Thermal Power Co. Ltd., this facility is part of China's broader strategy to transition towards cleaner energy sources while meeting the growing energy needs of its urban population.
The plant utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel source, which is known for its efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional coal-fired power plants. Natural gas is composed mainly of methane and is considered a cleaner alternative that produces significantly fewer pollutants, including carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). The operational characteristics of gas-fired plants allow for quick ramp-up times and flexibility in meeting fluctuating energy demands, making them ideal for integration within a modern energy grid that increasingly relies on intermittent renewable sources.
In terms of environmental impact, the Shanghai Caojing Jinshan power plant is designed to minimize its carbon footprint by utilizing advanced combustion technologies that enhance efficiency and reduce harmful emissions. The switch from coal to natural gas not only helps in reducing local air pollution but also supports China's commitment to international climate agreements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, it is important to note that while natural gas is cleaner than coal, it is still a fossil fuel, and its extraction and transportation may lead to methane leaks, which are potent greenhouse gases.
Regionally, the plant holds strategic significance as it helps stabilize Shanghai's energy supply. As one of the most populous cities in the world, Shanghai's energy requirements are vast and continually increasing. The Caojing Jinshan plant supports the city’s industrial base, residential energy needs, and serves as a backup during peak demand periods. Additionally, the facility's operation contributes to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting ancillary industries related to energy generation and management.
In conclusion, the Shanghai Caojing Jinshan power plant exemplifies China's shift towards more sustainable energy practices while addressing the challenges of urban energy demands. By leveraging natural gas, this facility not only enhances energy security for Shanghai but also aligns with national objectives aimed at reducing environmental impacts and promoting cleaner energy technologies.
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Gas Power Generation: An Overview of Its Mechanisms, Benefits, and Future Prospects
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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