Ranked as the 1301st power generation facility in the United States, AES Huntington Beach LLC plays a modest yet significant role in the energy landscape of California. With a capacity of 218 MW, this gas-fired plant contributes a mere 0.02% to the nation's total capacity of 1,386,385 MW, which reflects the dominance of gas as the primary fuel source in the country. Commissioned in 1959, it has been operational for several decades, adapting to the evolving energy demands of the region. The plant utilizes advanced gas turbine technology to generate electricity efficiently. This method allows for quick ramp-up in response to peak demands, making it an essential asset in California’s energy grid, where the balance of supply and demand can shift dramatically, particularly during hot summer months. The plant’s location in Huntington Beach positions it strategically near several major facilities, including the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, which boasts a capacity of 2254 MW, and the Alamitos Generating Station, with a substantial 1893 MW capacity. These neighboring plants create a robust energy cluster that enhances regional reliability and provides a diverse fuel mix. In the context of California's energy profile, AES Huntington Beach LLC stands out as one of the few gas plants in a landscape increasingly focused on renewable energy. However, with its significant gas counterpart nearby, such as the Haynes Generating Station at 1739 MW and the AES Alamitos LLC at 1115 MW, it illustrates the balance the state seeks between traditional fossil fuels and a growing commitment to sustainability. The state’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions has put pressure on gas plants, but AES Huntington Beach LLC remains a critical part of the energy mix, especially during transitions to cleaner energy sources. Operated by AES Huntington Beach LLC and established in a pivotal year for power generation, the plant serves as a reminder of the long-standing importance of natural gas in the U.S. energy sector. Its relatively small share of national capacity reflects the massive scale of the energy industry, with thousands of plants contributing to the overall grid. Looking forward, as California works toward ambitious climate goals, facilities like AES Huntington Beach will need to adapt, potentially integrating more renewable technologies or enhancing their efficiency to meet future energy demands. In conclusion, AES Huntington Beach LLC may not be among the largest gas plants in the country, but its operational history, strategic location, and role in the local energy mix emphasize its importance in ensuring a reliable energy supply while navigating the challenges of transitioning to a greener future.
67 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Gas
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileGas power generation is a significant component of the global energy landscape, characterized by the use of natural gas to produce electricity. This process typically involves either gas turbines or combined cycle gas plants. In a gas turbine, compressed air is mixed with natural gas and ignited, producing high-temperature exhaust gases that spin a turbine connected to a generator. Combined cycle plants enhance efficiency by utilizing both gas and steam turbines. After the gas turbine generates electricity, the waste heat is used to produce steam, which drives a steam turbine, thereby maximizing energy extraction from the fuel.
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