World Power PlantsWorld Power Plants

Alamitos Generating Station1,893 MW Gas

Gas

The Alamitos Generating Station is a notable gas-fired power plant located in the United States, particularly significant within the energy landscape of California. With a capacity of 1,893 MW, this facility has been a vital source of energy generation since its commissioning in 1956. Operated by AES, the Alamitos Generating Station uses advanced natural gas technology, which enables it to produce electricity efficiently while minimising emissions compared to conventional coal-fired plants. Positioned at coordinates 33.7665, -118.1010, this power generation facility contributes to the local grid, providing essential electricity to meet the needs of a growing population and supporting California's ambitious renewable energy goals. The significance of the Alamitos Generating Station is further highlighted by its role in providing backup power during peak demand periods, especially as the state increasingly integrates intermittent renewable sources such as wind and solar into its energy mix. The operational context of this power plant is shaped by California's progressive energy policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner energy alternatives. As the state transitions towards a more sustainable energy future, facilities like the Alamitos Generating Station are crucial in ensuring grid reliability while supporting the broader goals of energy diversification and environmental responsibility.

Capacity
1,893 MW

1.89 GW

Commissioning Year
1956

70 years old

Owner
AES
Location
33.7665°, -118.1010°

United States of America, North America

Location

Coordinates:: 33.766467, -118.101012
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Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
3.66 Mt
7462 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
255.95 Mt
Over 70 years of operation
Past Retirement
1986
40 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
794.9K
cars per year
487.5K
homes per year
166.2M
trees to offset

Estimates based on Gas emission factor (490 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (45%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Gas
Energy Source
Non-Renewable
Country
United States of America
Continent
North America
Data Source
Global Power Station Database

United States of AmericaEnergy Profile

10,047
Total Stations
1386.4 GW
Total Capacity
GasCoalNuclearHydro
Top Fuels

Gas Power Generation: An Overview of Technology, Impact, and Future Trends

Gas power generation is a pivotal component of the global energy landscape, with 4,378 gas power plants operational across 113 countries, contributing a total installed capacity of 1,731.2 gigawatts (GW). The United States leads in this sector, housing 1,881 plants with a capacity of 575.0 GW, followed by Russia, Iran, Japan, and China. This technology primarily utilises natural gas as a fuel source, which is burned to produce electricity through various processes, predominantly gas turbines and combined cycle systems.

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