San Quirico power plant, positioned as Italy’s 169th largest power generation facility among a total of 542 plants, plays a niche role in the country’s energy mix with its 132 MW capacity. Ranked 98th among 105 gas plants in Italy, San Quirico's contribution is relatively small, yet it is integral to the local energy landscape in the Emilia-Romagna region, where gas remains a significant fuel for power generation. Utilizing advanced gas turbine technology, San Quirico ensures efficient and flexible energy production, which is essential in a country that heavily relies on natural gas for its electricity needs. The plant's ability to quickly ramp up production makes it a critical component in maintaining grid reliability, especially when demand surges or during the intermittent generation from renewable sources. The surrounding energy ecosystem features notable facilities such as the Caorso Nuclear Power Plant (860 MW), which provides a substantial base load, and the SAN QUIRICO gas plant (137 MW), which operates in close proximity. Additionally, renewable sources are represented by smaller plants like DE Stern (6.2 MW) and Piadena (5.9 MW) solar plants, highlighting the diverse energy generation mix of the region. This synergy of various fuel types is vital for the stability and resilience of the local grid. With a total national capacity of 131,053 MW, Italy’s energy profile is heavily dominated by gas, which aligns with San Quirico's operational focus. The plant's output accounts for approximately 0.10% of the country’s total capacity, a testament to its role in supporting Italy’s energy infrastructure. As the country aims to transition towards greener energy practices, facilities like San Quirico will likely adapt to incorporate more sustainable practices while continuing to provide reliable power. Operated by skilled professionals, San Quirico has been a staple in the Italian energy market since its commissioning. The future of this gas facility hinges on the evolving energy regulations and the increasing integration of renewable energy sources. As Italy seeks to balance its energy portfolio, the importance of gas plants like San Quirico will remain pivotal in ensuring that the transition to a low-carbon economy is both efficient and effective.
11 years old
Italy, Europe
- Primary Fuel Type
- Gas
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Italy- Continent
- Europe
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Gas power generation is a significant component of the global energy landscape, characterized by the use of natural gas to produce electricity. This process typically involves either gas turbines or combined cycle gas plants. In a gas turbine, compressed air is mixed with natural gas and ignited, producing high-temperature exhaust gases that spin a turbine connected to a generator. Combined cycle plants enhance efficiency by utilizing both gas and steam turbines. After the gas turbine generates electricity, the waste heat is used to produce steam, which drives a steam turbine, thereby maximizing energy extraction from the fuel.
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.