The Farakka Super Thermal Power Station stands as a crucial pillar of energy generation in India, contributing significantly to the nation's coal-based power generation capacity. Located at coordinates 24.7740, 87.8938 in West Bengal, this power plant plays a vital role in ensuring a stable energy supply to the eastern region of India. With a remarkable capacity of 2100 MW, it is one of the largest coal-fired power generation facilities in the country, operated by NTPC, a leader in electricity generation in India. Commissioned in 1986, the Farakka Power Station utilizes subcritical technology to convert coal into electricity, leveraging the abundant domestic coal resources that India possesses. This technology is characterized by its efficiency and relatively lower emissions compared to older coal technologies, aligning with India's efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure. The significance of the Farakka Super Thermal Power Station extends beyond its substantial output; it is strategically located to support the local grid, enhancing electricity availability for nearby industrial and residential areas. As India continues to evolve its energy policies, with a focus on increasing renewable energy sources while still relying heavily on fossil fuels, plants like Farakka are integral to balancing the energy mix. Its operational context is particularly important in light of India's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future. The Farakka Super Thermal Power Station not only exemplifies the country's reliance on coal but also reflects the broader narrative of energy transition in one of the world's most populous nations.
2.10 GW
40 years old
India, Asia
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
India- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
The Farakka Super Thermal Power Station, located in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal, India, is a significant coal-fired power plant with a total installed capacity of 2100 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 1986, it is owned and operated by the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), one of India's largest power utilities. The plant plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of the region and contributes to the overall power generation capabilities of the country.
Fueled primarily by coal, the Farakka Super Thermal Power Station employs a variety of technologies to efficiently convert thermal energy into electrical energy. The coal used in the plant is sourced from various mines across India, ensuring a steady supply for continuous operation. The combustion of coal generates steam, which drives turbines connected to generators, producing electricity. NTPC emphasizes the use of high-quality coal to optimize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions, a critical aspect in an era where environmental concerns are paramount.
The environmental impact of coal-fired power plants like Farakka is a subject of ongoing discussion. While coal remains a dominant energy source in India, its combustion releases significant greenhouse gases and other pollutants, contributing to air quality issues and climate change. The Farakka plant has implemented various measures to mitigate these impacts, including advanced emission control technologies and adherence to stricter environmental regulations. Nonetheless, the plant's operation and its reliance on coal underscore the challenges of balancing energy needs with environmental sustainability.
Regionally, the Farakka Super Thermal Power Station holds strategic importance. It not only provides electricity to West Bengal but also contributes to the power grid of neighboring states, enhancing energy security and reliability across the eastern region of India. The plant supports local economies by creating jobs and fostering infrastructure development. Its location near the Ganges River also provides essential cooling water for the plant's operations, further integrating it into the local ecosystem.
In summary, the Farakka Super Thermal Power Station represents a vital component of India’s energy landscape. As the country continues to grapple with the dual challenges of energy demand and environmental protection, the role of such power plants will be increasingly scrutinized. Nevertheless, the Farakka plant remains a significant contributor to both regional development and national energy strategies as India works toward a more sustainable energy future.
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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