Orsted must restart oil and coal-fired power plants to ensure energy security.
A political decision
Orsted was forced by the Danish government to maintain three oil and coal-fired plants. The objective is to meet the country’s energy needs. Unit 3 of the Esbjerg power plant and unit 4 of the Studstrup power plant use coal as their main fuel.
Unit 21 at Kyndby Peak is oil-fired. The Esbjerg plant was scheduled to shut down on March 31, 2023, following those of Studstrup and Kyndby Peak. The revival of fossil fuel plants guarantees the government significant energy production in the short term.
The Esbjerg and Studstrup power plants have a capacity of 370 and 360 MW respectively. The Kyndby Peak unit has a production of 260 MW. Orsted’s President and CEO, Mads Nipper, states:
“In order to ensure energy security the Danish authorities have ordered us to continue operating some of our oil and coal-fired power plants. We are in the midst of an energy crisis and we will do our best to ensure the security of energy supply.”
A delicate measure
Orsted will have to deal with many technical constraints in order to restart the plants. The operator will be required to conduct maintenance on all three units for the required period. In addition, the operation of the facilities requires highly skilled workers, specifically trained to work on these facilities.
The company believes that the revival of the plants may take some time. Studstrup and Kyndby Peak units are likely to require continued attention. Orsted is committed to making the plants operational as soon as possible.
The Danish government requires Orsted to keep its plants in operation until June 30, 2024. The company thus maintains its goal of net zero emissions by 2025. The company says it will do its best to meet the deadlines.
