World Power Plants

Tabriz thermal power plant800 MW Natural Gas

GasVerified: Feb 2026

The Tabriz Thermal Power Plant, known locally as نیروگاه حرارتی تبریز, plays a vital role in Iran's energy generation landscape. This power generation facility utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel source, demonstrating the country's commitment to cleaner energy alternatives. With a significant capacity of 800 MW, Tabriz Thermal Power Plant contributes substantially to the regional power grid, ensuring a reliable supply of electricity to meet the demands of both residential and industrial consumers in the area. Located at coordinates 38.0096, 46.0989 in East Azerbaijan Province, the plant holds strategic importance due to its proximity to Tabriz, one of Iran's key economic hubs. The use of gas-fired technology allows the plant to operate with higher efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional coal-fired power facilities. As part of Iran's broader energy policy, which aims to diversify the energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, Tabriz Thermal Power Plant represents a step towards a more sustainable energy future. Managed by نیروگاه حرارتی تبریز, the facility has been instrumental in stabilizing the local grid and supporting economic growth in the region.

Capacity
800 MW
Commissioning Year
2010

16 years old

Owner
نیروگاه حرارتی تبریز
Location
38.0096°, 46.0989°

Iran, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 108. largest of 327 plants in Iran
  • #3,010 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #987 of 5,146 Natural Gas plants worldwide
  • 0.41% of the installed capacity of Iran
Age & fleet comparison

16 years in operation

Natural Gas fleet average: 26.9 years

Operator portfolio

Tabriz Thermal Power Plant operates 2 plants totalling 1,600 MW

Regional density

10 plants within 100 km, 4,647 MW combined

Nearest plant: Tabriz Petroshimi (18.6 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 38.009600, 46.098899
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
1.55 Mt
3154 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
24.72 Mt
Over 16 years of operation
Est. Retirement
2040
14 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
335.9K
cars per year
206.0K
homes per year
70.2M
trees to offset

Estimates based on Gas emission factor (490 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (45%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Gas
Energy Source
Non-Renewable
Country
Iran
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

Tabriz Thermal Power Plant: A Key Player in Iran's Energy Landscape

The Tabriz Thermal Power Plant, known in Persian as نیروگاه حرارتی تبریز, is a significant energy facility located in Iran with a capacity of 800 megawatts (MW). As a gas-fired power plant, it plays a crucial role in meeting the electricity demands of the region and contributes to the overall energy security of the country. Owned and operated by نیروگاه حرارتی تبریز, this power plant is part of Iran's broader strategy to diversify its energy sources and improve efficiency in power generation.

The primary fuel utilized by the Tabriz Thermal Power Plant is natural gas, which is favored for its efficiency and lower emissions compared to other fossil fuels such as coal or oil. Natural gas power plants like Tabriz generally operate using combined cycle technology, where the waste heat from gas turbines is used to generate steam, which in turn drives steam turbines for additional electricity generation. This method enhances the overall efficiency of the plant, allowing for a more effective conversion of fuel into electrical energy while minimizing fuel consumption.

In terms of environmental impact, the Tabriz Thermal Power Plant, like other gas-fired stations, produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional coal-fired plants. However, it is essential to note that while natural gas is a cleaner-burning fossil fuel, its extraction, transportation, and combustion still result in carbon dioxide emissions and other pollutants. The Iranian government is aware of the environmental challenges associated with fossil fuel usage and is actively seeking to increase its share of renewable energy in the overall energy mix, aiming for a more sustainable energy future.

Regionally, the Tabriz Thermal Power Plant serves as a vital asset for the northwestern part of Iran, particularly in Tabriz and surrounding areas. Its substantial output is integral to supporting local industries, residential needs, and quality of life. In a country like Iran, which has been heavily reliant on fossil fuels for its energy requirements, facilities like the Tabriz Thermal Power Plant are critical not only for local energy stability but also for bolstering the national grid. The plant contributes to the reduction of energy shortages, especially during peak demand periods, thereby enhancing the reliability of electricity supply across the region.

In conclusion, the Tabriz Thermal Power Plant stands out as an essential component of Iran's energy infrastructure. Its capacity and reliance on natural gas position it as a key player in the country's efforts to balance energy production with environmental considerations. As Iran continues to navigate the complexities of energy demand and environmental obligations, the Tabriz Thermal Power Plant exemplifies the ongoing evolution of the nation’s energy sector.

IranEnergy Profile

327
Total Plants
195.6 GW
Total Capacity
GasHydroOilNuclear
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