Heizkraftwerk 3, ranking as the 140th largest power generation facility in Germany, holds a pivotal position in the nation’s energy landscape with a capacity of 211 MW. This coal-fired plant contributes 0.14% to Germany’s total energy capacity of 151,891 MW, which is primarily fueled by coal. As the 57th largest coal plant among 111 in the country, Heizkraftwerk 3 underscores the continued significance of coal in the German energy mix, even as the country pivots towards renewable energy sources. The facility employs conventional coal combustion technology, which is common among coal-fired plants, allowing for the efficient generation of electricity. While coal is increasingly scrutinized for its environmental impact, Heizkraftwerk 3 plays an essential role in the local energy supply, especially during peak demand periods when the reliability of coal can be crucial for grid stability. Heizkraftwerk 3 is part of a notable cluster of coal plants in the region, with several nearby facilities that contribute significantly to the local and national energy supply. Within a 50-kilometer radius, the EMILE HUCHET plant stands out with a capacity of 995 MW, followed by Kraftwerk Bexbach at 726 MW and Weiher at 655.6 MW. Other coal plants like Kraftwerk Fenne and Kraftwerk Ensdorf add to the regional coal capacity with 432 MW and 389 MW respectively, thereby illustrating the heavy reliance on coal in the area. Germany’s energy profile is characterized by a significant dependence on coal, which has raised questions about sustainability and emissions. Nonetheless, Heizkraftwerk 3’s role is vital in ensuring energy reliability as the country transitions to cleaner alternatives. Its capacity, while modest, is crucial for meeting local energy demands within the broader context of Germany's energy strategy to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining energy security. Heizkraftwerk 3 is operated by STEAG Power Saar GmbH and has been generating electricity since its commissioning in 1989. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, the facility's contribution remains important, serving as a bridge in the transition towards more sustainable energy while also raising awareness of the environmental impacts associated with coal usage.
37 years old
Germany, Europe
- 140. largest of 1,483 plants in Germany
- #7,210 worldwide by installed capacity
- #2,082 of 2,793 Coal plants worldwide
- 0.14% of the installed capacity of Germany
37 years in operation
Coal fleet average: 29.2 years
STEAG Power Saar GmbH operates 3 plants totalling 1,046 MW
143 plants within 100 km, 24,300 MW combined
Source: Open Power System Data
Location
Estimates based on Coal emission factor (820 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (55%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Germany- Continent
- Europe
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Nearby Power Plants
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