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SOTO RIBERA 3346.25 MW Coal

Coal

SOTO RIBERA 3 is a coal-fired power generation facility located in Spain, with precise coordinates of 43.3122, -5.8739. This power plant has a capacity of 346.25 MW, making it an essential contributor to the country's energy production landscape. Operated by HIDROELECTRICA DEL CANTABRICO S.A., SOTO RIBERA 3 plays a critical role in providing a stable electricity supply to the local grid, which is increasingly important as Spain seeks to balance its energy mix. Commissioned in 1984, this plant utilizes traditional coal generation technology, which has been a cornerstone of energy production in Spain for decades. Despite the global shift towards renewable energy, coal plants like SOTO RIBERA 3 remain significant due to their ability to generate substantial amounts of energy reliably. The facility is strategically positioned to support regional energy demands, especially during peak consumption periods. In the context of Spain's energy policies, the country is transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future, which means that while coal power plants like SOTO RIBERA 3 will continue to operate, there is a clear focus on integrating renewable sources to reduce carbon emissions over time. The ongoing balance between maintaining reliable energy generation and pursuing environmental goals highlights the importance of SOTO RIBERA 3 in Spain's evolving energy landscape.

Capacity
346.25 MW
Commissioning Year
1984

42 years old

Owner
HIDROELECTRICA DEL CANTABRICO S.A.
Location
43.3122°, -5.8739°

Spain, Europe

Location

Coordinates:: 43.312200, -5.873900
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Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
1.37 Mt
1668 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
57.45 Mt
Over 42 years of operation
Past Retirement
2024
2 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
297.4K
cars per year
182.4K
homes per year
62.2M
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
Spain
Continent
Europe
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

SpainEnergy Profile

981
Total Plants
122.1 GW
Total Capacity
GasHydroNuclearWind
Top Fuels

Understanding Coal as a Power Generation Energy Source

Coal has long been a cornerstone of electricity generation worldwide, with a significant presence in the global energy landscape. As of recent data, there are approximately 2,608 coal power plants operating across 74 countries, boasting a total installed capacity of 2,257.3 gigawatts (GW). The leading nations in coal power generation include China, with 1,018 plants generating 1,038.0 GW, India with 287 plants at 253.3 GW, and the United States with 291 plants producing 252.0 GW. Other notable contributors include Germany and Japan, with 130 plants and 76.8 GW, and 61 plants and 63.9 GW, respectively. This widespread utilization reflects the essential role coal has played in the development of industrial and residential power systems globally.

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