CT GUARDO 2, situated in Spain, is a key player in the country's energy generation landscape. Owned and operated by IBERDROLA GENERACION S.A., this coal-fired power plant boasts a capacity of 485.85 MW, making it a significant contributor to Spain's energy mix. Commissioned in 1984, CT GUARDO 2 utilizes traditional coal technology, which has been a cornerstone of energy production in Spain for decades. The plant's location at coordinates 42.8261° N, -4.8463° W allows it to serve both the local community and the broader Spanish grid effectively. Given Spain's ongoing efforts to transition towards renewable energy sources, CT GUARDO 2 stands at a crossroads, representing both the past reliance on fossil fuels and the future potential for cleaner alternatives. The operational significance of this facility is underscored by its ability to provide baseload power, ensuring a steady supply of electricity even when renewable sources like solar and wind are not available. Although coal generation faces challenges due to environmental regulations and the push for decarbonization, CT GUARDO 2 remains an essential part of Spain's current energy framework, particularly in regions where energy demand is high. The plant's capacity to deliver reliable energy is vital as Spain continues to navigate its energy transition, balancing the need for stable electricity supply with the imperative of reducing carbon emissions.
42 years old
Spain, Europe
- 86. largest of 981 plants in Spain
- #4,739 worldwide by installed capacity
- #1,607 of 2,793 Coal plants worldwide
- 0.4% of the installed capacity of Spain
42 years in operation
Coal fleet average: 29.2 years
IBERDROLA GENERACION S.A. operates 42 plants totalling 18,212 MW
28 plants within 100 km, 3,377 MW combined
Source: Red Eléctrica de España
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
Spain- Continent
- Europe
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
CT GUARDO 2: A Key Coal-Fired Power Plant in Spain's Energy Landscape
CT GUARDO 2 is a coal-fired power plant located in Spain, boasting a generation capacity of 485.85 megawatts (MW). Owned by IBERDROLA GENERACION S.A., this facility was commissioned in 1984 and has played a significant role in the country's energy sector for nearly four decades. As a substantial contributor to Spain's electricity supply, CT GUARDO 2 has been integral in meeting the energy demands of both residential and industrial consumers in the region. The plant operates primarily using coal as its fuel source, a choice that has historically provided a reliable and abundant energy supply. However, the use of coal as a fuel type is characterized by certain technical specifications, including the combustion process that generates steam to drive turbines for electricity generation. The plant is equipped with technologies designed to optimize efficiency and manage emissions, although coal combustion is known to produce greenhouse gases and other pollutants.
The environmental impact of CT GUARDO 2 has been a focal point of discussion, particularly in the context of contemporary energy policies and climate change initiatives. Coal-fired plants are associated with carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, contributing to global warming and air quality issues. In response to growing environmental concerns, IBERDROLA has been actively investing in cleaner technologies and exploring ways to mitigate the environmental footprint of its coal operations. This includes the potential for carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, although the implementation and scalability of such solutions remain challenges in the energy sector.
CT GUARDO 2 holds regional significance beyond its contribution to the national grid. It serves as a crucial energy source for the surrounding community and plays a vital role in the local economy by creating jobs and supporting ancillary services. The facility's operation has implications for energy pricing and reliability in the region, especially in periods of peak demand. Additionally, the power plant's existence reflects the broader transition within Spain's energy landscape, where coal power faces increasing competition from renewable energy sources such as wind and solar.
As Spain continues to align itself with European Union energy policies aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the future of CT GUARDO 2 and similar coal-fired plants is under scrutiny. The country is striving to achieve ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets, prompting discussions about the viability of coal as a long-term energy solution. While CT GUARDO 2 has historically been a cornerstone of energy generation in Spain, its role may evolve as the nation transitions towards a more sustainable energy model.
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