Europe's Biggest Coal-Burning Power Plant Begins Operation

GREVENBROICH, GERMANY - AUGUST 16: The new BoA 2&3 coal-burning power plant stands at twilight the day after it officially went into operation on August 16, 2012 near Grevenbroich, Germany. The plant, which is operated by German power company RWE, is rated at 2,200 Megawatts, making it the biggest coal-fired plant in Europe. Though Germany is among world nations leading in investments in renewable energy sources, supporters of the BoA 2&3 argue the plant is necessary as a bridge until the capacity of renewable energy sources becomes sufficient, especially in light of Germany’s commitment to phase out its nuclear power plants. According to RWE the plant will also replace 13 smaller, less-efficient coal-burning plants in the region. (Photo by Juergen Schwarz/Getty Images)