World Power PlantsWorld Power Plants

Kårstø Power Station420 MW Gas

Gas

Kårstø Power Station is a crucial component of Norway's energy generation landscape, primarily fueled by natural gas. With a substantial capacity of 420 MW, it plays a significant role in the national energy mix, contributing to Norway's commitment to sustainable energy practices while ensuring a stable supply of electricity. Operated by Naturkraft, this power plant is strategically located at coordinates 59.2756, 5.5111, in the picturesque region of Kårstø, which lies in the southwestern part of Norway. The plant's location is particularly advantageous as it allows for efficient access to both gas supplies and the local electrical grid. As part of Norway's broader energy policy, Kårstø Power Station complements the country's extensive hydroelectric resources, providing a reliable backup during periods of low hydro generation, thus enhancing grid stability. The technology utilized at Kårstø includes advanced gas turbine systems that offer high efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional fossil fuel power generation methods. This makes Kårstø not only a vital player in meeting energy demands but also aligns with the nation's environmental goals. The plant's operational context is significant, especially given Norway's reliance on renewable resources, making the presence of gas-fired power plants like Kårstø essential for balancing energy supply and demand. With its impressive MW capacity and strategic operational role, Kårstø Power Station remains an influential facility in Norway's energy future.

Capacity
420 MW
Commissioning Year
2005

21 years old

Owner
Naturkraft
Location
59.2756°, 5.5111°

Norway, Europe

Location

Coordinates:: 59.275556, 5.511111
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
811.3 Kt
1656 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
17.04 Mt
Over 21 years of operation
Est. Retirement
2035
9 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
176.4K
cars per year
108.2K
homes per year
36.9M
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
Norway
Continent
Europe
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

NorwayEnergy Profile

440
Total Plants
39.5 GW
Total Capacity
HydroWindGasOther
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.

See Incorrect or Missing Data?

Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.