Overview
Katakhali (Peaking) is a 100 MW diesel power plant in Bangladesh. It operates on oil fuel and serves as a peaking facility to meet electricity demand during peak hours.
Katakhali (Peaking) is a diesel power plant located in Bangladesh, with a capacity of 100 megawatts. The facility operates on oil fuel and is designed to provide electricity during periods of peak demand, helping to stabilize the grid. As a peaking plant, it plays a crucial role in balancing supply and demand in the national power system. The plant operates under Bangladesh's regulatory framework for power generation, which includes environmental standards set by the Department of Environment. Diesel power plants like Katakhali typically use internal combustion engines, which are efficient for peaking operations but have higher emissions per unit of electricity compared to combined cycle gas turbines. The facility's capacity places it in the medium-scale range for diesel plants in the region. Katakhali (Peaking) contributes to the energy security of Bangladesh by providing rapid response to grid fluctuations. Its location in the northern part of the country supports local industrial and residential electricity needs. The plant's operational status as a peaking facility underscores its importance in the country's energy mix, which includes a growing share of natural gas and renewable sources.
Environmental context
The Katakhali (Peaking) plant uses oil as its primary fuel, which results in higher CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions compared to natural gas or renewable sources. Its location in a populated area of Bangladesh may expose nearby communities to air pollutants. Diesel engines typically have lower efficiency and higher emissions than modern combined cycle plants. The facility's peaking operation means it runs intermittently, reducing its overall environmental impact compared to baseload plants.
Frequently asked questions
Katakhali (Peaking) is located in Bangladesh, near the coordinates 24.366000 N, 88.676300 E, in the northern part of the country.
Katakhali (Peaking) is a diesel power plant that operates on oil fuel. It is designed as a peaking facility to generate electricity during periods of high demand.
The plant has a capacity of 100 megawatts (MW), which is typical for a medium-scale peaking diesel facility.
Diesel power plants in Bangladesh must comply with the national environmental standards set by the Department of Environment, including emission limits for SOx, NOx, and particulate matter. The government also promotes cleaner technologies through its power sector master plan.
As a peaking plant, Katakhali provides rapid-response electricity during peak demand periods, helping to maintain grid stability and prevent blackouts. It supports the integration of variable renewable sources by balancing supply and demand.