The Tiefstack power station ranks as the 151st largest power generation facility in Germany, contributing 194 MW to the country's energy portfolio. This coal-fired plant, owned and operated by Vattenfall Europe AG, represents a significant player in a nation where coal has traditionally been a cornerstone of electricity generation. With Germany's total capacity reaching 151,891 MW across 1483 plants, Tiefstack accounts for approximately 0.13% of the national capacity, a vital piece in maintaining energy reliability in a transitioning landscape. Utilizing standard coal combustion technology, Tiefstack generates electricity by burning coal to produce steam, which drives turbines. While this method has been effective for decades, it faces increasing pressure as Germany embraces its Energiewende policy, which aims to transition toward renewable energy sources. The plant is surrounded by a notable cluster of energy facilities, including the Hamburg-Moorburg plant, which generates a substantial 1600 MW, and the Krümmel Nuclear Power Plant, generating 1402 MW. This proximity to larger facilities highlights the competitive nature of energy generation in the region. The local energy context is characterized by a mix of traditional and modern generation technologies. The presence of nearby coal plants like Kraftwerk Tiefstack and Wedel power station, along with renewable options, reflects the diverse energy landscape that Germany is navigating. Despite being ranked #61 out of 111 coal plants in the country, Tiefstack continues to serve an essential role in ensuring a consistent power supply, particularly during periods of high demand. Since its commissioning in 1993, Tiefstack has been a cornerstone of the Hamburg energy grid, providing base-load power essential for maintaining stability. However, as Germany shifts towards a greener energy future, the fate of coal plants like Tiefstack is increasingly uncertain. The ongoing discussions around phasing out coal in favor of cleaner energy sources put into perspective the plant's significance within the national energy strategy. As Germany aims to reduce carbon emissions and increase reliance on renewables, the future of such facilities will be pivotal in shaping the energy landscape, balancing the immediate needs of supply against long-term sustainability goals.
33 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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