How Many Coal Power Stations Are There in Australia?

Australia has long been one of the world’s leading coal producers and consumers, relying heavily on coal-fired power stations to generate electricity. As the country transitions towards renewable energy, understanding the current landscape of coal power stations is essential for energy policy, environmental discussions, and investment decisions. This article explores the number of coal power stations in Australia, providing a detailed overview of their distribution, capacity, and future outlook.

Overview of Coal Power in Australia

Coal power has historically been the backbone of Australia’s electricity generation. The country boasts abundant coal reserves, which have powered its industries and homes for decades. Despite the rise of renewable energy sources, coal still contributes a significant proportion of Australia’s electricity, particularly in states like Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. As of 2024, Australia operates a number of coal power stations, both large and small, spread across these key regions.

Total Number of Coal Power Stations

As of the latest data in 2024, Australia has approximately 20 operational coal-fired power stations. These stations vary in size and capacity but collectively contribute roughly 60% of the country’s total electricity generation. The number can fluctuate slightly due to planned closures, upgrades, or new developments. It’s important to note that some smaller plants may be classified differently depending on their capacity and operational status.

Distribution by State

The majority of coal power stations are located in three states:

Queensland: Around 7 coal power stations operate here, including major facilities like the Stanwell Power Station and Tarong Power Station. Queensland relies heavily on coal for its electricity needs.

New South Wales: This state hosts about 8 coal power stations, including the well-known Liddell and Bayswater power stations. New South Wales is Australia’s most populous state and has a high demand for electricity.

Victoria: Victoria has around 5 coal power stations, including the Loy Yang and Yallourn power stations, which are among the largest in the country.

Other states and territories have minimal or no coal power stations due to their reliance on hydro, natural gas, or renewables.

Capacity and Output

The combined capacity of Australia’s coal power stations is approximately 20,000 megawatts (MW). This capacity translates into a substantial output that meets a large portion of the national electricity demand. However, the efficiency and environmental impact of these stations vary, with older plants generally less efficient and more polluting than newer ones.

Role of Coal Power in Australia’s Energy Mix

Despite growing investments in solar, wind, and other renewable sources, coal power remains a critical component of Australia’s energy mix. It provides stable, baseload power that supports grid reliability. However, the country is gradually reducing its dependence on coal in line with climate goals and international commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Planned Closures and Transition Plans

Several coal power stations in Australia have announced or are expected to announce closure dates over the next decade. For example, the Liddell Power Station in New South Wales is scheduled for closure by 2023, and other stations are following suit. These closures are part of a broader transition strategy to replace coal with cleaner energy sources while ensuring energy security.

Environmental and Economic Considerations

Coal power stations in Australia face increasing scrutiny due to their environmental impact, including greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Economically, while coal mining and power generation have provided jobs and regional development, the shift to renewables is changing the economic landscape. Governments and industries are working on just transition plans to support affected workers and communities.

Future Outlook for Coal Power Stations in Australia

The future of coal power stations in Australia is uncertain but leaning towards decline. Renewables are becoming more cost-competitive, and storage technologies like batteries are improving grid flexibility. However, coal will likely remain part of the energy mix for some years, especially as backup power, until cleaner alternatives fully mature and scale.

In summary, Australia currently operates about 20 coal-fired power stations, predominantly in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. These stations continue to supply a significant portion of the country’s electricity but face gradual phase-out as Australia shifts towards renewable energy sources. Understanding the number, distribution, and future of coal power stations is crucial for stakeholders navigating Australia’s evolving energy landscape. As the country balances energy security, economic interests, and environmental responsibilities, the role of coal power stations will continue to evolve in the coming years.