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Birchwood Power258.3 MW Coal

Coal

Birchwood Power is a coal-fired power generation facility located in the United States, contributing significantly to the energy supply with a capacity of 258.3 MW. Operated by Birchwood Power Partners LP, this power plant was commissioned in 1996 and is strategically situated at coordinates 38.2667° N, -77.3147° W. The facility utilizes conventional coal technology, which allows for efficient electricity generation, supporting both residential and commercial energy needs in the surrounding region. As part of the U.S. energy landscape, Birchwood Power plays a critical role in maintaining grid stability, particularly in times of high demand. The plant's operational context is influenced by evolving energy policies that increasingly emphasize cleaner energy sources; however, it remains a key player in the coal sector while transitioning towards incorporating more sustainable practices. Birchwood Power exemplifies the ongoing balancing act between meeting current energy needs and moving towards a future that prioritizes environmental sustainability.

Capacity
258.3 MW
Commissioning Year
1996

30 years old

Owner
Birchwood Power Partners LP
Location
38.2667°, -77.3147°

United States of America, North America

Location

Coordinates:: 38.266700, -77.314700
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Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
1.02 Mt
1244 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
30.61 Mt
Over 30 years of operation
Est. Retirement
2036
10 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
221.8K
cars per year
136.1K
homes per year
46.4M
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
United States of America
Continent
North America
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

United States of AmericaEnergy Profile

10,047
Total Plants
1386.4 GW
Total Capacity
GasCoalNuclearHydro
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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