The Ako is a key infrastructure asset in Japan's power generation grid, located on the continent of Asia. Designated as a fossil fuel electricity generation station, the facility features an installed capacity of 1200 MW. Its primary operation relies on harnessing oil energy resources to generate bulk electricity. Operational management and ownership of the facility are handled by the Kansai, which oversees daily maintenance and grid dispatch integration. The facility was officially connected to the commercial grid in 1995, since which it has maintained regular output, playing a structured role in domestic power supply security. In terms of domestic production capacity within Japan, Ako occupies the #13 position among all operational oil power plants. Its 1200 MW capacity represents a 2.44% share of Japan's total installed oil generating capacity, which currently stands at 49,174 MW. The largest operational oil installation in Japan is the Kashima Power Station with an output of 5,660 MW, making the Ako approximately 4.7 times smaller by comparison. Across all fuel types and electricity generation technologies country-wide, this facility accounts for 0.3345% of Japan's aggregate generation capacity of 358,713 MW. Based on historical capacity factors characteristic of oil power plants (modeled at 15% for analysis), the facility's expected annual electricity generation is calculated at approximately 1,576,800 MWh. Applying domestic consumption statistics where an average household in Japan consumes 3 MWh of electricity annually, this level of production is sufficient to meet the energy demands of roughly 525,600 homes. By utilizing traditional thermal power processes, the station delivers reliable dispatchable energy to the grid, supporting grid resilience during periods of low renewable resource availability and satisfying industrial base-load demands. The physical site of the station is located at geographic coordinates 34.7413° latitude and 134.3786° longitude. Analysis of local grid infrastructure shows a density of other assets within a 50-kilometer radius. These nearby facilities include the Himeji Daini (gas-fired, 1650 MW), the Himeji Daiichi (gas-fired, 1442 MW), the Okawachi (hydroelectric, 1280 MW), representing a cluster of localized power assets. This geographic placement is vital for reinforcing regional distribution infrastructure and minimizing transmission line losses across this sector of Japan.
1.20 GW
31 years old
Japan, Asia
Location
Estimates based on Oil emission factor (650 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (35%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Oil
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Japan- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Ako Power Plant: A Key Player in Japan's Energy Landscape
The Ako Power Plant, located in Japan, is a significant energy facility with a generating capacity of 1200 megawatts (MW). Owned by Kansai Electric Power Company, this power plant primarily utilizes oil as its fuel source, placing it within the context of Japan's broader energy strategy. As the nation navigates its energy needs, particularly in the aftermath of the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011, facilities like Ako play a vital role in ensuring a stable and reliable electricity supply.
Oil-fired power plants, such as Ako, convert the chemical energy stored in oil into electrical energy through combustion. In this process, the oil is burned to produce steam, which drives turbines connected to generators. While oil is a highly efficient fuel source, its use comes with certain technical and environmental considerations. The Ako Power Plant has been designed to optimize fuel efficiency while also adhering to stringent safety and operational standards. However, reliance on oil can lead to volatility in fuel costs and supply, given the global oil market's fluctuations.
The environmental impact of oil-fired plants like Ako is a critical area of concern. Burning oil releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and other pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and air quality issues. Additionally, oil spills and leaks can have detrimental effects on local ecosystems if not managed properly. In response to these challenges, Kansai Electric has implemented measures to mitigate emissions and improve the environmental footprint of the Ako facility. This includes exploring cleaner technologies and transitioning toward more sustainable energy sources in the future.
Regionally, the Ako Power Plant serves as a crucial energy provider for the Kansai region, which includes major urban centers such as Osaka and Kyoto. The plant supports the local economy by providing jobs and fostering energy security. As Japan continues to diversify its energy mix, the Ako Power Plant's role may evolve, particularly as the country increases its focus on renewable energy sources and seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with international climate commitments.
Overall, the Ako Power Plant stands as a vital component of Japan's energy infrastructure, highlighting the complexities of balancing energy needs with environmental responsibilities. As the country moves toward a more sustainable energy future, the legacy and impact of oil-fired facilities like Ako will be an essential part of the conversation surrounding energy policy and environmental stewardship.
Nearby Power Plants
An Overview of Oil as a Power Generation Energy Source
Oil power generation involves the combustion of oil to produce electricity. The process typically begins with the extraction and refining of crude oil, which is then burned in a power plant to create steam. This steam drives turbines connected to generators, converting thermal energy into electrical energy. Oil power plants can vary in design, including steam turbine plants, gas turbine plants, and combined cycle plants, which utilize both gas and steam turbines to enhance efficiency. As of now, there are 2,416 oil power plants worldwide, distributed across 108 countries, with a total installed capacity of 286.9 gigawatts (GW).
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