Thermal Power Plant No. 2 (Ulaanbaatar)

Thermal Power Plant No. 2 (TPP-2) is a coal-fired power plant located in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. It is one of the largest power plants in the country and a major source of electricity and heat for the capital city. TPP-2 plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of Ulaanbaatar's residential and industrial sectors, particularly during the harsh Mongolian winters.

The plant utilizes coal, primarily sourced from domestic mines, as its primary fuel. The burning of coal generates steam, which drives turbines connected to generators, producing electricity. The waste heat from this process is also captured and distributed as district heating, a common practice in many cold-climate regions.

TPP-2 is a significant contributor to air pollution in Ulaanbaatar, a city already facing challenges with air quality. The emissions from coal combustion include particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants. These emissions contribute to respiratory problems and other health issues among the city's residents.

Due to growing concerns about air pollution and the environmental impact of coal-fired power plants, there have been ongoing discussions and initiatives to modernize TPP-2 and reduce its emissions. These efforts include exploring cleaner coal technologies, improving energy efficiency, and diversifying the energy mix with renewable sources such as solar and wind power. The plant's aging infrastructure also necessitates ongoing maintenance and upgrades to ensure reliable operation and minimize breakdowns. The government of Mongolia, along with international organizations, are working on projects to improve the plant's performance and mitigate its environmental impact.