World Power Plants

Mao Khe is a coal-fired power plant located in Vietnam, contributing significantly to the country's energy generation landscape. With a capacity of 440 MW, this facility plays a pivotal role in meeting the growing electricity demand in Vietnam, particularly as the nation experiences rapid industrialization and urbanization. The plant is strategically positioned at coordinates 21.0907, 105.7700, in an area that is part of Vietnam's broader energy infrastructure. Operated by Vinacomin, Mao Khe utilizes conventional coal combustion technology, which allows it to generate electricity reliably for both residential and industrial consumers. The operational context of the plant aligns with Vietnam's energy policies, which currently emphasize the importance of coal as a primary source of energy while also beginning to explore renewable alternatives. As the country strives to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, facilities like Mao Khe are crucial for providing baseload power, ensuring energy security. While coal remains a dominant fuel source, the Vietnamese government is gradually implementing strategies to transition towards cleaner energy solutions, making the role of Mao Khe even more significant in the context of this transition. The plant not only helps stabilize the local grid but also supports local economies through job creation and energy access. In summary, Mao Khe is an essential component of Vietnam's energy landscape, illustrating the complexities of energy generation in a rapidly developing country.

Capacity
440 MW
Commissioning Year
2013

13 years old

Owner
Vinacomin
Location
21.0907°, 105.7700°

Vietnam, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 49. largest of 326 plants in Vietnam
  • #4,992 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,653 of 2,793 Coal plants worldwide
  • 0.56% of the installed capacity of Vietnam
Age & fleet comparison

13 years in operation

Coal fleet average: 29.2 years

Operator portfolio

Vinacomin operates 6 plants totalling 1,515 MW

Regional density

16 plants within 100 km, 9,956 MW combined

Nearest plant: Ho Nui Coc (52 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 21.090700, 105.770000
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
1.74 Mt
2120 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
22.60 Mt
Over 13 years of operation
Est. Retirement
2053
27 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
377.9K
cars per year
231.8K
homes per year
79.0M
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
Vietnam
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

Mao Khe Power Plant: A Key Player in Vietnam's Energy Landscape

The Mao Khe Power Plant, located in Vietnam, is a significant coal-fired power facility with a total installed capacity of 440 megawatts (MW). Owned and operated by Vinacomin, the Vietnam National Coal and Mineral Industries Holding Corporation Limited, this power plant plays a crucial role in supporting the country's energy sector, particularly as Vietnam continues to experience rapid economic growth and increasing energy demands.

As a coal-fired power plant, Mao Khe utilizes coal as its primary fuel source. Coal is a widely available and relatively inexpensive energy resource, which has made it a popular choice in many regions, including Vietnam. The plant's design incorporates advanced technologies aimed at improving efficiency and reducing emissions compared to older coal power plants. However, coal combustion is associated with the release of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), and other pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which can contribute to air quality issues and climate change.

Mao Khe Power Plant's operation reflects Vietnam’s broader energy strategy, which includes a diverse mix of energy sources, including hydroelectric, renewable, and fossil fuels. As the country seeks to enhance its energy security and reduce reliance on imported fuels, coal remains a significant component of its energy portfolio. The plant's contribution of 440 MW helps stabilize the electricity grid, especially during peak demand periods, and supports the growing industrial sector in the region.

In terms of environmental impact, while coal-fired power plants like Mao Khe contribute to economic development, they also pose challenges. The emissions from coal combustion are a concern for public health and the environment. The Vietnamese government has been actively working on policies to mitigate the environmental effects associated with coal power through the introduction of cleaner technologies and stricter emissions regulations. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on transitioning to renewable energy sources, which may eventually reduce the reliance on coal.

Regionally, the Mao Khe Power Plant is of significant importance. It not only provides electricity to local industries and households but also supports the national grid in meeting the energy demands of various provinces. The strategic location of the plant allows for the efficient transport of coal and electricity distribution, making it a vital asset in the northern part of Vietnam, where energy demand is surging due to industrial development and urbanization.

In summary, the Mao Khe Power Plant stands as a key contributor to Vietnam's energy landscape, embodying both the opportunities and challenges presented by coal-fired power generation. Its capacity and operational significance underscore the ongoing need for a balanced approach to energy production that considers economic growth, environmental sustainability, and energy security.

VietnamEnergy Profile

326
Total Plants
78.7 GW
Total Capacity
HydroCoalGasNuclear
Top Fuels

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