World Power Plants

Hofuf power generation facility, situated in Saudi Arabia, holds the position of #93 among 163 power plants in the country, with a capacity of 189 MW. This facility is primarily oil-fired, ranking #51 out of 79 oil plants, and it also utilizes gas as a secondary fuel. Contributing a modest 0.13% to Saudi Arabia's total capacity of 144,506 MW, Hofuf stands as a testament to the Kingdom's diversified energy strategy, even as gas remains the dominant fuel source. Commissioned in 2008 and operated by the Saudi Cement Company, Hofuf employs traditional thermal generation technology, where the combustion of oil and gas generates steam that drives turbines to produce electricity. This method, while effective, presents challenges in the context of global shifts toward cleaner energy alternatives. Nevertheless, the facility plays a crucial role in supporting local energy needs, especially in an area characterized by a high concentration of gas plants. The nearby energy landscape is dominated by gas facilities, including the Faras Power Plant with a substantial capacity of 1500 MW, and several others such as SHEDGUM and UTHMANIYAH co-generation plants, each contributing over 490 MW. This clustering of gas-fired plants indicates a robust infrastructure for natural gas usage in the region, which allows for enhanced grid stability and energy supply reliability. Hofuf's oil-fired generation adds diversity to this mix, contributing to energy security while also aligning with the Kingdom's economic goals. Saudi Arabia's energy profile shows a clear preference for gas, which accounts for the majority of the national energy mix, significantly overshadowing oil. However, Hofuf's role as an oil-powered facility is crucial, particularly in periods of peak demand or supply disruptions. It ensures a reliable supply of electricity to local industries and communities, reinforcing the importance of having a varied fuel portfolio. As Saudi Arabia continues its efforts to modernize its energy sector, Hofuf will need to adapt to evolving standards and expectations, particularly with the global shift towards sustainability. The facility's operational practices and its integration with neighboring gas plants position it strategically within the Kingdom’s broader energy landscape. Looking forward, Hofuf's role in the transition to a more sustainable energy future will be vital, especially as the nation seeks to balance economic growth with environmental considerations.

Capacity
189 MW
Commissioning Year
2008

18 years old

Owner
Saudi Cement Company
Location
25.3100°, 49.3430°

Saudi Arabia, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 94. largest of 163 plants in Saudi Arabia
  • #7,663 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #316 of 2,478 Oil plants worldwide
  • 0.13% of the installed capacity of Saudi Arabia
Age & fleet comparison

18 years in operation

Oil fleet average: 28.7 years

Operator portfolio

Saudi Cement Company operates 2 plants totalling 244 MW

Regional density

16 plants within 100 km, 15,675 MW combined

Nearest plant: Faras Power Plant (12.6 km)

Data provenance

Source: ECRA

Location

Coordinates:: 25.310000, 49.343000
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Carbon Footprint650 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
376.7 Kt
579 GWh/year × 650 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
6.78 Mt
Over 18 years of operation
Est. Retirement
2038
12 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
81.9K
cars per year
50.2K
homes per year
17.1M
trees to offset

Estimates based on Oil emission factor (650 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (35%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Oil
Energy Source
Non-Renewable
Country
Saudi Arabia
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

Saudi ArabiaEnergy Profile

163
Total Plants
144.3 GW
Total Capacity
GasOilSolarWind
Top Fuels

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