The OBRA-A power plant, located in India at coordinates 24.4448, 82.9803, plays a critical role in the country's energy landscape. Commissioned in 1979, this coal-fired power generation facility has a substantial capacity of 1,094 MW, making it a significant contributor to India's energy mix. As one of the key coal-based power plants in the region, OBRA-A supports the growing energy demands of India, a nation that continues to rely heavily on coal as a primary source of electricity generation. The technology employed at OBRA-A primarily consists of traditional steam generation through coal combustion, which is a common method in coal power plants, enabling the conversion of thermal energy into electrical energy through turbines. The facility also has the capability to utilize oil as a secondary fuel, providing operational flexibility and reliability in energy generation. Situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh, OBRA-A serves as an essential component of the local grid, supplying electricity to nearby regions and aiding in the stabilization of the energy supply in a rapidly developing area. This strategic location supports both urban and rural electrification efforts, aligning with India's broader energy policies aimed at enhancing energy access and reducing energy poverty. As India navigates its energy transition, the role of established coal power plants like OBRA-A remains pivotal, especially in meeting immediate energy demands while the country explores a more diversified energy portfolio, including renewables. The operational context of OBRA-A reflects India's ongoing commitment to energy security, as coal remains a dominant fuel choice despite the global shift toward cleaner energy solutions. The plant's enduring presence since its commissioning highlights its significance in the national energy framework, illustrating the challenges and complexities of balancing traditional energy sources with emerging sustainable technologies.
1.09 GW
47 years old
India, Asia
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
India- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
The OBRA-A power plant, with a capacity of 1094 megawatts (MW), is a significant coal-fired power facility located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. Commissioned in 1979, it plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of the region and contributes to the national grid's stability and reliability. As one of the major power plants in India, OBRA-A has been integral in supporting the economic development of the area, providing electricity to both residential and industrial consumers. The plant primarily utilizes coal as its fuel source, a common choice for thermal power generation in India, where coal reserves are abundant. The combustion of coal in the plant's boilers converts water into steam, which then drives turbines to generate electricity. The plant is designed to operate efficiently while adhering to operational norms set by regulatory bodies. However, the use of coal as fuel raises concerns regarding environmental impact. The combustion process produces emissions such as carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are contributors to air pollution and climate change. Efforts have been made to implement technologies aimed at reducing these emissions, including electrostatic precipitators and flue gas desulfurization units. Nevertheless, the environmental footprint of coal-fired power plants like OBRA-A remains a significant challenge in India's transition towards cleaner energy sources. Regionally, the OBRA-A power plant serves as a backbone for electricity supply in Uttar Pradesh, a state with a high demand for power due to its large population and industrial activities. The availability of reliable electricity is essential for fostering economic growth, improving living standards, and enhancing quality of life for residents. Furthermore, the plant supports the local economy by providing jobs to a considerable number of people, both directly and indirectly, through ancillary services and supply chains. Despite the ongoing challenges posed by coal dependency, OBRA-A remains a vital asset in India's energy sector, reflecting the complexities of balancing energy needs with environmental considerations. As the country moves towards a more sustainable energy future, the role of legacy coal plants like OBRA-A will be scrutinized as part of broader policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and increasing the adoption of renewable energy sources.
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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