World Power Plants

River Chongchon Power Generation Facility, positioned as the 17th largest among North Korea's 31 power plants, contributes a vital 200 MW to the nation’s overall energy output. This capacity represents approximately 2.17% of North Korea's total capacity of 9,208 MW, firmly establishing River Chongchon as the eighth largest coal facility in a country where coal remains the dominant fuel source. Utilizing conventional coal-fired technology, the plant generates electricity that is essential for powering local industries and households, thereby playing a significant role in regional energy stability. Nestled within a region rich in energy resources, River Chongchon is surrounded by several notable power generation facilities. Notably, within a 50 km range are the Pushihe and Pushihe Pumped Storage Power Stations, each boasting a substantial capacity of 1,200 MW, representing a significant hydropower presence in the area. Additionally, the Shuifeng (Sup'ung) Hydro Power Station adds another layer of renewable energy with a capacity of 765 MW. The Huaneng Dandong coal power station, generating 700 MW, further complements the coal sector nearby, demonstrating a balanced energy mix in this part of North Korea's grid. In the national context, coal accounts for the majority of North Korea's energy production, and River Chongchon’s capacity aligns with the average output of coal plants in the country. This facility is instrumental in meeting the energy demands of the region, particularly as industrial activities continue to expand. As part of a broader strategy to ensure energy security, River Chongchon supports the country’s electricity needs during peak usage periods. Owned and operated by the North Korean government, River Chongchon began operations in the early years of North Korea's industrialization. As the country moves forward, the importance of such coal facilities cannot be understated, particularly in light of ongoing economic challenges and energy accessibility issues. The reliance on coal, while posing environmental concerns, underscores River Chongchon’s critical role in a country where energy infrastructure development remains a key focus for future growth.

Capacity
200 MW
Commissioning Year
1987

39 years old

Owner
Korea Electric Power Corporation
Location
40.0707°, 124.5524°

North Korea, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 17. largest of 31 plants in North Korea
  • #7,393 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #2,107 of 2,793 Coal plants worldwide
  • 2.17% of the installed capacity of North Korea
Age & fleet comparison

39 years in operation

Coal fleet average: 29.2 years

Operator portfolio

Korea Electric Power Corporation operates 22 plants totalling 8,799 MW

Regional density

11 plants within 100 km, 5,565 MW combined

Nearest plant: Dandong Jinshan power station (20.2 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 40.070700, 124.552400
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
790.2 Kt
964 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
30.82 Mt
Over 39 years of operation
Closing Soon
2027
1 year remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
171.8K
cars per year
105.4K
homes per year
35.9M
trees to offset

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
North Korea
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

North KoreaEnergy Profile

31
Total Plants
9.2 GW
Total Capacity
CoalHydro
Top Fuels

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