Cumberland Power Plant, located in the United States at coordinates 36.3903, -87.6539, is a significant coal-fired power generation facility operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority. With a capacity of 2600 MW, this plant has been an integral part of the energy landscape since its commissioning in 1973. The Cumberland facility utilizes conventional coal combustion technology, contributing to the baseload power essential for the local grid in Tennessee and surrounding areas. The plant's substantial generation capacity ensures a reliable electricity supply, which is crucial for both residential and commercial consumers in the region. As the energy sector evolves, Cumberland faces the dual challenge of maintaining its operational efficiency while adhering to stricter environmental regulations aimed at reducing coal emissions. This context highlights the facility's role within broader national energy policies that promote a transition toward renewable energy sources while recognizing the ongoing importance of coal in energy generation during this transitional period.
2.60 GW
53 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 Cumberland Fossil Plant, located in Tennessee, is a significant coal-fired power generation facility owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Commissioned in 1973, the plant has a total generating capacity of 2,600 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest coal-fired power plants in the United States. The facility plays a crucial role in the energy sector of the region, contributing to the electrical needs of millions of residents and supporting local industries.
As a coal-powered plant, Cumberland utilizes coal as its primary fuel source for electricity generation. Coal has been a traditional energy source in the United States due to its abundance and affordability. The combustion of coal produces steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity. However, this fuel type is also associated with various environmental concerns, including greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and the generation of coal ash, a byproduct of combustion. The TVA has undertaken measures to mitigate some of these impacts, including the implementation of emissions control technologies and the exploration of cleaner energy alternatives.
The environmental impact of the Cumberland Plant has been a subject of scrutiny and regulatory oversight. Coal-fired plants are known to emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which contribute to air quality issues and climate change. The TVA has invested in technologies aimed at reducing these emissions, including scrubbers and selective catalytic reduction systems, which help to lower the levels of harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere.
Regionally, the Cumberland Fossil Plant is of great significance. It serves as a backbone for the electrical grid in the Tennessee Valley, providing reliable power to support economic development and residential needs. The plant's output is vital for maintaining grid stability, especially during peak demand periods. Moreover, the TVA plays a crucial role in balancing energy production with environmental stewardship, reflecting a commitment to transitioning towards more sustainable energy sources while ensuring the reliability of power supply in the Tennessee Valley.
In recent years, the energy landscape in the United States has been shifting towards renewable sources, including solar and wind power. The TVA has recognized this transition and is actively investing in renewable energy projects, as well as energy efficiency programs. Despite these changes, the Cumberland Fossil Plant remains an essential component of the TVA's energy portfolio, providing a substantial amount of baseload power while the region adapts to evolving energy demands and environmental considerations.
In summary, the Cumberland Fossil Plant stands as a prominent feature in the energy sector of the United States, particularly within the Tennessee Valley. With its substantial capacity and ongoing efforts to address environmental challenges, the plant exemplifies the complexities of balancing energy production, economic needs, and ecological responsibility.
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.
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.