Brandon Shores Power Plant, located in the United States at coordinates 39.1800° N and -76.5389° W, is a prominent coal-fired power generation facility with a capacity of 1370.2 MW. Commissioned in 1987, this power plant plays a crucial role in the regional energy landscape, providing a stable and reliable source of electricity to the local grid. As one of the key players in Maryland's energy mix, Brandon Shores contributes significantly to the state's electricity supply, catering to both residential and industrial consumers. The use of coal as a fuel type at Brandon Shores aligns with the historical reliance on fossil fuels for energy generation in the United States. However, in recent years, the plant has faced increasing scrutiny due to environmental concerns associated with coal combustion, prompting discussions about transitioning to alternative energy sources. Despite these challenges, Brandon Shores remains a critical asset in ensuring energy reliability, particularly during peak demand periods. The operational context of this power plant is shaped by Maryland's energy policies, which aim to balance energy needs with environmental responsibilities. As the state moves towards a more sustainable energy future, the significance of Brandon Shores cannot be understated, as it continues to provide a large MW capacity while the transition to cleaner energy sources is carefully managed.
1.37 GW
39 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
The Brandon Shores Power Plant, located in the United States, is a substantial coal-fired power generation facility with a total capacity of 1370.2 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 1987 and owned by Brandon Shores LLC, the plant plays a crucial role in the country's energy sector, contributing significantly to the regional power supply and the overall energy infrastructure. As a coal-based facility, it utilizes coal as its primary fuel source, which is known for its abundance and cost-effectiveness in electricity generation. The combustion of coal in the plant's boilers generates steam that drives turbines to produce electricity, making it a vital contributor to the grid, especially during peak demand periods.
The technical details surrounding coal as a fuel type are significant. Coal is primarily composed of carbon, along with various other elements such as hydrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen. The type of coal used at Brandon Shores is likely to be bituminous coal, which is common for power generation due to its high energy content and suitability for combustion in large-scale power plants. The process of burning coal releases energy, but it also emits greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, as well as other pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. The environmental impact of coal-fired power plants like Brandon Shores is a subject of ongoing concern, particularly in light of climate change and air quality issues.
In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards cleaner energy sources, which has raised questions about the long-term viability of coal power. However, Brandon Shores continues to play a regional role in providing reliable electricity to homes and businesses, particularly in areas where renewable energy sources are not yet fully developed or integrated into the grid. The plant's operation helps to stabilize energy prices and ensures a consistent supply of electricity, which is essential for economic activity and quality of life in the surrounding communities.
In summary, the Brandon Shores Power Plant stands as an important facility within the United States' energy landscape. While it faces challenges related to environmental impact and the transition towards cleaner energy sources, its role in providing reliable power and supporting regional energy needs remains significant. As discussions around energy policy evolve, the future of coal-fired power plants like Brandon Shores will likely continue to be a critical topic in the pursuit of a balanced and sustainable energy strategy.
United States of America — Energy ProfileCoal 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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