How Many Coal Fired Power Stations Are There in NSW?

Coal-fired power stations have historically been a significant source of electricity generation in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. As the state transitions towards cleaner energy sources, understanding the current status and number of coal-fired power stations is essential for energy policy, environmental considerations, and economic planning. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how many coal-fired power stations are currently operating in NSW, along with key information about their capacity, role, and future outlook.

Overview of Coal-Fired Power Generation in NSW

NSW has long relied on coal-fired power plants due to the state's abundant coal reserves. These plants have traditionally been the backbone of electricity supply, providing baseload power to millions of households and businesses. However, with increasing environmental concerns and government policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions, the number and operation of coal-fired power stations in NSW have evolved over recent years.

Number of Coal Fired Power Stations in NSW

As of 2024, there are four main coal-fired power stations currently operating in NSW:

Liddell Power Station

Bayswater Power Station

Mount Piper Power Station

Eraring Power Station

These stations vary in size and capacity but collectively contribute a significant portion of the state's electricity supply.

Details of Each Coal Fired Power Station

Liddell Power Station

Located near Muswellbrook, Liddell has been operational since the 1970s. It has a capacity of around 2,000 megawatts (MW). The station is scheduled for closure in the mid-2020s, reflecting the shift away from coal.

Bayswater Power Station

Also situated near Muswellbrook, Bayswater is one of the largest coal-fired plants in the southern hemisphere, with a capacity of approximately 2,640 MW. It remains a critical part of NSW's power infrastructure.

Mount Piper Power Station

Located near Lithgow, Mount Piper has a capacity of about 1,400 MW. It is one of the newer stations compared to Liddell and Bayswater and continues to operate as a key energy provider.

Eraring Power Station

Eraring, near Lake Macquarie, is the largest coal-fired power station in NSW, with a capacity of 2,880 MW. It is a major supplier of electricity to the state and is expected to remain operational for the near future.

Capacity and Contribution to NSW Energy Mix

Collectively, these four coal-fired power stations have a combined capacity of around 8,920 MW. Despite the rise of renewable energy, coal still accounts for roughly 50-60% of NSW’s electricity generation, underscoring the ongoing importance of these power stations in meeting energy demand.

Environmental Impact and Regulatory Changes

Coal-fired power stations are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. NSW has introduced various environmental regulations and incentives to reduce carbon emissions, which has accelerated the closure of older and less efficient coal plants like Liddell. The state government also promotes renewable energy projects to replace coal-fired power generation gradually.

Future Outlook for Coal Power in NSW

The future of coal-fired power in NSW is marked by a gradual decline. Plants like Liddell are closing, while others may face retrofitting or operational reductions to meet emissions targets. The transition includes increasing investments in renewables such as solar and wind, along with energy storage solutions to ensure grid stability.

Impact on Energy Security and Economy

Coal-fired power stations currently provide reliable baseload power, which is crucial for energy security in NSW. Their gradual phase-out poses challenges for maintaining stable electricity supply and may impact employment in coal mining and power generation sectors. The government’s energy transition plans aim to balance these economic considerations with environmental goals.

In summary, there are currently four major coal-fired power stations operating in New South Wales: Liddell, Bayswater, Mount Piper, and Eraring. These plants collectively generate a significant portion of the state’s electricity despite the growing share of renewables. While coal power remains vital today, environmental regulations and policy shifts are driving a gradual reduction in coal-fired generation. Understanding the number and role of these power stations is key to anticipating NSW’s energy future, balancing economic needs, and achieving sustainability targets. As NSW continues its energy transition, monitoring the status of coal-fired power stations will remain important for stakeholders and policymakers alike.