The 九州電力 松浦火力発電所, also known as the Matsuura Power Station, plays a critical role in Japan's energy landscape. Located at coordinates 33.3507° N latitude and 129.6823° E longitude, this coal-fired power plant boasts a substantial capacity of 1700 MW, making it one of the significant contributors to the energy generation mix in the Kyushu region. Commissioned in 1989 and operated by 九州電力 (Kyushu Electric Power Company), the plant utilizes advanced coal combustion technology, which allows for efficient energy production while addressing the energy needs of the surrounding communities. The facility primarily relies on coal as its fuel source, contributing to the region's energy stability and supporting Japan's electricity demands, particularly during peak consumption periods. The importance of the Matsuura Power Station extends beyond just numbers; it is a vital asset for the local grid, ensuring reliability in power supply within a country that has been transitioning its energy policies in recent years. As Japan continues to navigate the challenges of energy security and sustainability, the role of coal-fired plants like Matsuura remains pivotal. The facility's operational context is marked by Japan's ongoing efforts to balance fossil fuel use with renewable energy sources, making it a key player in the region's energy strategy. With the country's ambitious goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the Matsuura Power Station stands at the intersection of traditional energy generation and the evolving energy landscape, highlighting the complexities of Japan's energy future.
1.70 GW
37 years old
Japan, Asia
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Japan- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
The Kyushu Electric Power Company Matsuura Thermal Power Plant, located in Japan, plays a significant role in the country's energy sector. Commissioned in 1989, this facility has a substantial capacity of 1,700 megawatts (MW) and primarily utilizes coal as its fuel source. As one of the important power generation assets for Kyushu Electric Power Company, the Matsuura plant contributes to the stability and reliability of electricity supply in the Kyushu region, particularly during peak demand periods.
The Matsuura Thermal Power Plant operates using coal, a fossil fuel that has been a traditional energy source for many power plants worldwide. Coal combustion generates electricity through steam generation, where water is heated in a boiler to produce steam that drives turbines. The choice of coal as a fuel type for the Matsuura plant aligns with Japan's historical reliance on fossil fuels for energy production, particularly before the shift towards renewable energy sources in response to environmental concerns and energy security issues following the Fukushima disaster in 2011.
Despite its critical role in energy production, the use of coal raises environmental concerns, particularly regarding greenhouse gas emissions and air quality. The combustion of coal releases carbon dioxide (CO2), a significant contributor to climate change, as well as other pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which can lead to acid rain and respiratory health issues. In recent years, the Japanese government has faced pressure to reduce its carbon footprint and transition to cleaner energy sources, prompting discussions about the future of coal-fired power plants like Matsuura.
Regionally, the Matsuura Thermal Power Plant is of great significance to the local economy and energy infrastructure. It supports the energy needs of industries and households in Kyushu, which is one of Japan's major islands. The plant's capacity allows it to provide a substantial portion of the region's electricity, thereby playing a vital role in ensuring energy security and economic stability. Furthermore, the Matsuura plant is part of a broader energy strategy that includes diversification of energy sources, with a gradual transition towards renewable energy options such as solar and wind in response to national objectives for sustainable development.
In conclusion, the Kyushu Electric Power Company Matsuura Thermal Power Plant exemplifies the complexities of energy production in Japan. While it remains an essential part of the region's energy infrastructure, the environmental implications of coal use continue to pose challenges. The ongoing transition toward more sustainable energy practices will likely influence the future operations and relevance of the Matsuura plant within Japan's evolving energy landscape.
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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