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Shymkent Thermal Power Plant-3160 MW Gas

Gas

Shymkent JEC-3 stands as a notable player in Kazakhstan's energy landscape, holding the position of the 55th largest power generation facility among 123 plants in the country. With a capacity of 160 MW, it is classified as the 9th largest gas plant out of 18 in Kazakhstan. This ranking highlights the facility's vital contribution to a national capacity of 42,418 MW, where coal remains the dominant fuel source. Shymkent JEC-3 accounts for 0.38% of the country's total energy capacity, underscoring its role in supporting Kazakhstan's energy needs amidst a mostly coal-dependent grid. The facility employs gas as its primary fuel, utilizing advanced generation technologies that enhance efficiency and reduce emissions compared to traditional coal-fired plants. Located at coordinates 42.2774, 69.6827, Shymkent JEC-3 is isolated, with no nearby plants within a 50 km radius, making it a significant standalone energy contributor in the region. This geographical feature ensures that it serves as a critical energy source for local demands, particularly in a context where other energy facilities are not readily accessible. The lack of nearby plants emphasizes the importance of Shymkent JEC-3 in maintaining energy reliability and stability in its area. As Kazakhstan continues to evolve its energy profile, which heavily leans on coal, the role of natural gas facilities like Shymkent JEC-3 will be crucial in transitioning towards a more balanced and sustainable energy mix. The ongoing reliance on gas can help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions while providing a stable power supply. Operated by local authorities, the plant's contribution is expected to remain significant as Kazakhstan seeks to diversify its energy portfolio. Its strategic importance is further amplified by the nation's commitment to enhancing energy security and sustainability, particularly as global trends shift towards cleaner energy sources. The future prospects for Shymkent JEC-3 look promising as it continues to adapt to the evolving energy landscape, potentially playing a key role in Kazakhstan's journey towards energy diversification and environmental stewardship.

Capacity
160 MW
Commissioning Year
2015

11 years old

Owner
Kazakhstan Electricity Grid Operating Company (KEGOC)
Location
42.2774°, 69.6827°

Kazakhstan, Asia

Location
Coordinates:: 42.277359, 69.682665
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Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
309.1 Kt
631 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
3.40 Mt
Over 11 years of operation
Est. Retirement
2045
19 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
67.2K
cars per year
41.2K
homes per year
14.0M
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
Kazakhstan
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database
KazakhstanEnergy Profile
123
Total Plants
42.4 GW
Total Capacity
CoalHydroGasSolar
Top Fuels
Gas Power Generation: An Overview of Its Mechanisms, Benefits, and Future Prospects

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.

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