Cardinal— 1,880.4 MW Coal

The Cardinal Power Plant, located in the United States, is a significant coal-fired power generation facility with a capacity of 1,880.4 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 1970, this power plant is owned and operated by the Cardinal Operating Company. It plays a vital role in the energy sector of the country, contributing to the electricity supply and supporting the grid's stability in the regions it serves. As a large-scale power generation facility, Cardinal harnesses coal as its primary fuel source, which has been a traditional energy resource in the United States for decades. The plant's operational capacity makes it one of the substantial contributors to the energy mix in its locality, bolstering the region's electrical infrastructure and ensuring a reliable power supply for residential, commercial, and industrial consumers. The technical aspects of coal as a fuel type involve its combustion to produce steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity. However, coal is also associated with significant environmental impacts, primarily due to the emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants during combustion. The Cardinal Power Plant, like many coal-fired facilities, has faced scrutiny regarding its contributions to air quality degradation, including sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, which can adversely affect human health and the environment. Over the years, measures have been taken to mitigate these impacts, including the implementation of emissions control technologies and compliance with regulatory standards aimed at reducing air pollution. In the context of regional significance, the Cardinal Power Plant serves as a critical energy source for the surrounding areas, particularly in times of peak demand. Its large capacity allows for the provision of electricity to thousands of homes and businesses, thereby playing a key role in local economic development and energy security. Despite the growing emphasis on renewable energy sources and the transition towards a more sustainable energy future, facilities like Cardinal remain integral to the current energy landscape in the United States. The ongoing debate surrounding fossil fuels, including coal, highlights the need for a balanced approach to energy production that considers both economic viability and environmental stewardship. As the country continues to navigate the challenges of energy transition, the Cardinal Power Plant stands as a historical and functional component of the national power generation framework.

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.