Higashi-Niigata Power Station
One of the largest power plants in Japan
Location
History & Background
Commissioned in 1977, Higashi-Niigata Power Station is a gas power plant located in Japan with an installed capacity of 4.6 GW. It is operated by Tohoku Electric. By installed capacity, it ranks among the top 5 power plants in Japan.
Why It Matters
Higashi-Niigata Power Station provides flexible, dispatchable electricity to Japan, with capacity to supply roughly 2.1 million US-equivalent households per year. Combined-cycle gas plants emit roughly half the CO2 per kilowatt-hour of coal, which is why many countries are using gas as a "bridge fuel" during their energy transition.
Environmental Impact
Natural gas combined-cycle plants like Higashi-Niigata Power Station emit roughly half the CO2 per unit of electricity that coal plants do, but they still emit substantial amounts—on the order of 10.0 million tonnes per year for a plant this size. Methane leakage from the upstream gas supply chain can also significantly affect the climate impact.
Fun Facts
- One of the 10 largest power plants in Japan.
- Produces enough electricity to power roughly 2.1 million US-equivalent households per year at typical capacity factor.
- Has been operating for 49 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much power does Higashi-Niigata Power Station produce?▾
Higashi-Niigata Power Station has an installed nameplate capacity of 4.6 GW. At typical capacity factors for gas plants (~55%), this produces enough electricity for approximately 2.1 million US-equivalent households per year.
Where is Higashi-Niigata Power Station located?▾
Higashi-Niigata Power Station is located in Japan at approximately 37.9500°, 139.0500°.
When was Higashi-Niigata Power Station built?▾
Higashi-Niigata Power Station was commissioned in 1977.
Who owns Higashi-Niigata Power Station?▾
Higashi-Niigata Power Station is owned and operated by Tohoku Electric.
About Natural Gas Power
Natural gas power plants burn natural gas in a combustion turbine to generate electricity. They are more efficient and produce fewer emissions than coal plants, making them a popular choice for baseload and peaking power.
Other Natural Gas Power Plants in Japan
| Name | Capacity | Owner |
|---|---|---|
| ⚡Futtsu Power Station | 5.0 GW | TEPCO |
| ⚡Kawagoe Power Station | 4.8 GW | Chubu Electric |
Related Reading
Data Information
Data Sources
Power plant data is based on the Global Power Plant Database by World Resources Institute, in collaboration with Google, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Enipedia, and the Global Energy Observatory.
Disclaimer
Information found on this page is for informational purposes only. Power plant specifications, ownership, and operational status may have changed since the data was last updated. Please verify critical information with official sources.