The Ekibastuz Thermal Power Plant-2 is a key infrastructure asset in Kazakhstan'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 1000 MW. Its primary operation relies on harnessing coal energy resources to generate bulk electricity. Operational management and ownership of the facility are handled by the Energyprom, which oversees daily maintenance and grid dispatch integration. The facility was officially connected to the commercial grid in 1990, since which it has maintained regular output, playing a structured role in domestic power supply security. In terms of domestic production capacity within Kazakhstan, Ekibastuz Thermal Power Plant-2 occupies the #7 position among all operational coal power plants. Its 1000 MW capacity represents a 3.40% share of Kazakhstan's total installed coal generating capacity, which currently stands at 29,384 MW. The largest operational coal installation in Kazakhstan is the Ekibastuz GRES-1 with an output of 4,000 MW, making the Ekibastuz Thermal Power Plant-2 approximately 4.0 times smaller by comparison. Across all fuel types and electricity generation technologies country-wide, this facility accounts for 2.3575% of Kazakhstan's aggregate generation capacity of 42,418 MW. Based on historical capacity factors characteristic of coal power plants (modeled at 55% for analysis), the facility's expected annual electricity generation is calculated at approximately 4,818,000 MWh. Applying domestic consumption statistics where an average household in Kazakhstan consumes 3 MWh of electricity annually, this level of production is sufficient to meet the energy demands of roughly 1,606,000 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 52.0250° latitude and 75.4789° longitude. Analysis of local grid infrastructure shows a density of other assets within a 50-kilometer radius. These nearby facilities include the Ekibastuz-1 power station (coal-fired, 4000 MW), the Ekibastuz GRES-1 (coal-fired, 4000 MW), the Ekibastuz-2 power station (coal-fired, 1000 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 Kazakhstan.
1.00 GW
36 years old
Kazakhstan, Asia
Location
Estimates based on Coal emission factor (820 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (55%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Kazakhstan- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Overview of Екібастұз ГРЭС-2: A Key Player in Kazakhstan's Energy Landscape
Екібастұз ГРЭС-2 is a significant coal-fired power plant located in Kazakhstan, with a total installed capacity of 1000 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 1990, it plays a crucial role in the country's energy sector, contributing to both the local and national electricity supply. The power plant is situated in the Ekibastuz region, which is known for its abundant coal reserves, making it an ideal location for such an operation.
The plant primarily utilizes coal as its fuel source, which is abundant and relatively inexpensive in Kazakhstan. The type of coal used at Екібастұз ГРЭС-2 is lignite, characterized by its high moisture content and lower energy density compared to other coal types. Lignite is considered a less efficient fuel source, but the large reserves available in the region allow the plant to maintain a consistent and economical supply of fuel. The plant's design and technology facilitate the combustion of this type of coal, although it does present challenges related to efficiency and environmental emissions.
As a pivotal component of Kazakhstan's energy infrastructure, Екібастұз ГРЭС-2 not only supplies electricity to the national grid but also supports the industrial sector, which is vital for the country's economy. The power generated by the plant is distributed across several regions, ensuring energy security and reliability for both residential and commercial consumers. Moreover, the plant's output is essential for meeting peak demand periods, particularly during the harsh winters that Kazakhstan experiences.
However, the reliance on coal as a primary fuel source raises environmental concerns. The combustion of coal at Екібастұз ГРЭС-2 results in significant greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to air pollution and climate change. The plant has been subject to scrutiny due to its environmental impact, prompting discussions about the need for cleaner energy alternatives and technologies. Efforts have been made to implement measures to reduce emissions, but the transition to more sustainable energy sources remains a challenge for the country.
Regionally, Екібастұз ГРЭС-2 holds significant importance not only as a power generator but also as an employment source for the local community. The plant creates jobs and fosters economic development in the area, contributing to the overall growth of the Ekibastuz region. Additionally, it serves as a model for other energy projects in Kazakhstan, highlighting both the advantages and challenges of coal-based power generation.
In summary, Екібастұз ГРЭС-2 is a cornerstone of Kazakhstan's energy landscape, providing substantial electricity generation capacity through coal. While it supports the nation’s energy needs and local economic development, the environmental implications of coal dependency necessitate ongoing dialogue and action towards a more sustainable energy future.
Nearby Power Plants
Understanding Coal as a Power Generation Energy Source
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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