Located in Germany, the Chemiepark Marl power station ranks #185 among the country's 1,483 power generation facilities, with a capacity of 136 MW, making it a notable contributor at 0.09% of Germany's total installed capacity of 151,891 MW. This coal-fired facility, classified as the 69th largest out of 111 coal plants in Germany, reflects the continuing reliance on fossil fuels even as the nation pushes toward cleaner energy alternatives. Commissioned in 1974, Chemiepark Marl employs traditional coal combustion technology, generating electricity through the burning of coal to produce steam that drives turbines. While coal is facing increasing scrutiny due to its environmental impact, this facility remains a critical component of the local energy infrastructure, particularly during periods of high demand when renewable sources may fall short. Its operational capacity plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable energy supply, especially in a region where energy reliability is paramount. The plant is situated near several other significant coal power facilities, such as KW Voerde, which boasts a capacity of 1,390 MW, and KW Walsum at 1,200 MW. Additionally, the Trianel Kohlekraftwerk Lünen, producing 746 MW, and Herne power station at 729 MW further highlight the concentration of coal-based generation in the area. This clustering of coal plants illustrates the regional dependence on fossil fuel generation amidst a backdrop of increasing calls for cleaner energy solutions. Germany's energy profile is heavily skewed towards coal, which remains the dominant fuel source despite the government's commitment to transitioning to renewable energies. Chemiepark Marl plays a vital role in this context, serving as both a reliable energy source and a reminder of the challenges associated with reducing coal dependency. Operated by Infracor GmbH, the power station's longevity speaks to its importance in meeting local energy demands while navigating the complexities of evolving environmental standards. Looking ahead, Chemiepark Marl faces the dual challenge of remaining competitive amid rising environmental concerns and the global push for a decarbonized energy sector. As Germany continues to expand its renewable energy portfolio, the role of coal plants like Chemiepark Marl will need to be reevaluated. The facility’s capacity and operational history position it as a critical player in the ongoing energy transition, highlighting the balance that must be struck between traditional energy sources and sustainable future solutions.
52 years old
Germany, Europe
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Germany- Continent
- Europe
- 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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