Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station
2.0 GW coal power plant in Japan
Location
History & Background
Commissioned in 2003, Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station is a coal power plant located in Japan with an installed capacity of 2.0 GW. It is operated by JERA. By installed capacity, it ranks among the top 10 power plants in Japan.
Why It Matters
Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station is one of the largest sources of dispatchable power in Japan, generating enough electricity for around 918,714 US-equivalent households per year. Coal plants of this scale historically anchored national grids, but their high CO2 intensity makes them central targets in most decarbonization plans.
Environmental Impact
Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station is among the most carbon-intensive forms of electricity generation. A plant of this size typically emits roughly 9.2 million tonnes of CO2 per year, along with particulate matter, sulfur compounds, and trace heavy metals. Most national decarbonization plans include phasing plants like this out within the next two decades.
Fun Facts
- One of the 10 largest power plants in Japan.
- Produces enough electricity to power roughly 918,714 US-equivalent households per year at typical capacity factor.
- Has been operating for 23 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much power does Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station produce?▾
Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station has an installed nameplate capacity of 2.0 GW. At typical capacity factors for coal plants (~55%), this produces enough electricity for approximately 918,714 US-equivalent households per year.
Where is Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station located?▾
Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station is located in Japan at approximately 36.4339°, 140.6322°.
When was Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station built?▾
Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station was commissioned in 2003.
Who owns Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station?▾
Hitachinaka Thermal Power Station is owned and operated by JERA.
About Coal Power
Coal power plants burn coal to produce steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity. While reliable and capable of producing large amounts of power, coal plants are significant sources of CO2 emissions and air pollution.
Other Coal Power Plants in Japan
| Name | Capacity | Owner |
|---|---|---|
| ⚡Hekinan Thermal Power Station | 4.1 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.