Top Best Coal Power Plants in North Korea for 2025

North Korea remains one of the world’s most fascinating yet secretive nations, and its power infrastructure, including coal-based electricity, plays a pivotal role in the country’s development. While information about North Korea is often scarce due to its isolated nature, data sources shed light on its electrical landscape. This article covers North Korea’s coal power sector, offering insights into the facilities’ capacities, fuel types, and strategic significance.

Overview of Coal Power Plants in North Korea

Coal power remains a dominant energy source for North Korea, providing much-needed electricity across the nation. With significant reliance on lignite and anthracite, North Korean coal-fired plants contribute heavily to the national grid’s power output. Here is a table summarizing some of the most prominent coal-based power plants in the country:

Significant Coal Power Plants in North Korea

Chongjin Chemical Fiber Power Plant

Located in Chongjin, this coal-fired power plant has an operational capacity of 6 MW, providing electricity to the national grid since 1976. It primarily serves local needs and utilizes pollution control measures to reduce thermal pollution.

Chongjin City Power Station

This 450 MW plant has been operational since 1999 and plays a crucial role in supplying power to North Hamgyong Province, enhancing regional infrastructure and economic activities. It supports local businesses, households, and industries by providing consistent electricity.

December (Nampo) Power Station

With a capacity of 200 MW, the December Power Station began operations recently, using advanced pollution control technologies to minimize its impact on the environment. Located near the port of Nampo, it is a key electricity supplier to the area.

December 12th Power Plant

The December 12th Power Plant, located at 38.8893 latitude and 125.5596 longitude, is a 100 MW coal-fired facility that plays a vital role in meeting the regional power demands. It comprises two 50 MW units, featuring bi-drum indirect hot-fueled steam generators and a condensation turbine generator set. The plant also utilizes desulfurization systems to adhere to environmental regulations, making it a relatively eco-conscious facility in the region. Its operational efficiency and reliance on coal contribute to local economic growth and job creation.

East Pyongyang Power Station

Situated at latitude 38.9695 and longitude 125.6881, the East Pyongyang Power Station is a 500 MW coal-fired facility providing essential energy to Pyongyang and nearby regions. The plant, which commenced operations in 2012, supplies around 4,000 GWh of power annually. Besides generating electricity, it plays a crucial role in providing heating and cooling services to local industries and households. This facility also supports agricultural sectors and aims to reduce North Korea’s dependency on external energy sources, aligning with national goals for energy independence.

Haeju Cement Power Plant

Located in Haeju City within South Hwanghae Province, the Haeju Cement Power Plant boasts a capacity of 200 MW. The plant primarily uses coal to generate electricity, contributing significantly to local energy needs. It also supports nearby industries by supplying chemicals and refineries. The facility leverages waste heat to power surrounding areas, enhancing its efficiency. Environmental controls, such as pollutant emission regulations, ensure that the plant operates with a focus on minimizing its environmental impact while providing reliable energy output.

Hamhung Power Plant

The Hamhung Power Plant, located at latitude 39.8531 north and longitude 127.5789 east, has an output capacity of 500 MW, making it one of North Korea’s larger coal-based power facilities. Established in 1987, it produces approximately 2.5 TWh of electricity annually to meet Hamhung City’s power demands. While the plant remains a significant source of emissions, recent initiatives aim to reduce its environmental impact, including installing new pollution control devices and adopting emission-reducing technology.

Hongnam Fertilizer Power Plant

This 18 MW coal-fired power facility is located at latitude 39.8402 and longitude 127.6341. Operational since 2020, the Hongnam Fertilizer Power Plant supplies electricity to nearby communities while providing thermal energy for the adjacent fertilizer plant. Coal is transported via belt conveyor systems and burned to generate steam, which powers turbines. This electricity is then distributed to the fertilizer plant and surrounding areas. The plant’s efficient energy production and low emissions have made it a valuable asset for local energy needs.

Pukchang Power Station

Pukchang Power Station, located at latitude 39.5858 and longitude 126.3043, is one of North Korea’s largest coal-fired plants with a capacity of 1600 MW. It supplies electricity to Pyongyang and neighboring regions, contributing significantly to the country’s power grid. Operating at around 80% efficiency, the plant generates an estimated 13.2 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually. The facility remains an integral component of North Korea’s energy infrastructure, though its environmental impact remains a concern due to coal combustion emissions.

Pyongyang Power Station

With a capacity of 400 MW, the Pyongyang Power Station has been operational since 2015, providing a critical source of electricity for North Korea’s capital. Located at latitude 39.0093 and longitude 125.7109, it utilizes coal to generate approximately 500 gigawatt-hours of power annually. The plant integrates advanced heat-recovery steam generators to maximize energy efficiency and reduce fuel consumption, along with modern air pollution controls to limit harmful emissions.

Rajin Power Station

Rajin Power Station, with a 400 MW capacity, is located near the Russian border in the Rason Special Economic Zone. It operates two 200 MW coal-fired units, which began production in 2020. This cross-border venture between North Korea’s Ministry of Electricity and Russian firm Mechel highlights the importance of international cooperation in energy production. The facility is a significant contributor to both North and South Korea’s energy supply, providing a stable source of electricity for local and regional needs.

River Chongchon Power Plant

Located at latitude 40.0707 and longitude 124.5524, the River Chongchon Power Plant is a 200 MW coal-fired facility serving approximately 160,000 households. It features carbon-capture technology to reduce harmful emissions, contributing to a cleaner energy solution for North Korea. The plant exemplifies the country’s efforts to adopt cleaner coal technologies and maintain energy efficiency while meeting its electricity demands.

Sariwon Power Station

The 200 MW Sariwon Power Station, established in 1996, is known for its high efficiency and environmentally friendly technologies. Located at latitude 38.4631 and longitude 125.8289, it utilizes advanced emission control systems to minimize pollutants and operates with a focus on energy efficiency. The plant serves over one million households, making it a critical component of North Korea’s power infrastructure.

Sunchon Power Station

Sunchon Power Station, located in South Pyongan Province at latitude 39.4014 and longitude 125.9682, is a 400 MW coal-fired facility. It plays a key role in powering Pyongyang and other major cities, reducing the country’s dependence on oil. The plant has shifted from imported coal to using domestically sourced coal, highlighting its importance in North Korea’s energy strategy.