World Power PlantsWorld Power Plants

E C Gaston2,034 MW Gas

Gas

E C Gaston Power Plant is a significant energy generation facility located in the United States, specifically at coordinates 33.2442, -86.4581. This power plant plays an essential role in Alabama's energy mix, contributing a remarkable capacity of 2034 MW, primarily through natural gas, with coal and oil used as secondary and tertiary fuels, respectively. Operated by Alabama Power Co, the E C Gaston plant has been a cornerstone of the region's electricity supply since its commissioning in 1967. The facility utilises advanced gas turbine technology, which enhances its operational efficiency and reduces emissions compared to older fossil fuel plants. The plant's ability to switch between gas, coal, and oil allows for flexibility in energy generation, ensuring reliability during peak demand periods. The E C Gaston Power Plant not only supports the local grid but also aligns with Alabama's energy policies aimed at transitioning to cleaner sources while maintaining energy security. As part of a diversified energy strategy, this facility is critical in meeting the electricity needs of Alabama's growing population and industries, making it a vital asset in the state's power generation landscape.

Capacity
2,034 MW

2.03 GW

Commissioning Year
1967

59 years old

Owner
Alabama Power Co
Location
33.2442°, -86.4581°

United States of America, North America

Location

Coordinates:: 33.244200, -86.458100
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
3.93 Mt
8018 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
231.80 Mt
Over 59 years of operation
Past Retirement
1997
29 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
854.1K
cars per year
523.8K
homes per year
178.6M
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.

See Incorrect or Missing Data?

Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power station data accurate and up-to-date.