Asbury power generation facility is positioned as the 1314th largest plant in the United States, with an installed capacity of 212.8 MW. This coal-fired facility, operated by Empire District Electric Co since its commissioning in 1970, contributes a mere 0.02% to the vast energy landscape of the U.S., which boasts a total capacity of 1,386,385 MW across 10,047 plants. Its relatively low ranking reflects the ongoing transition in the U.S. energy sector, where natural gas has become the dominant fuel type, overtaking coal in prominence. Utilizing traditional coal technology, Asbury's operations are indicative of a bygone era in energy production. The facility, while still operational, faces increasing pressure to adapt to a rapidly changing energy market that prioritizes cleaner alternatives. This shift underscores the challenges coal plants face in maintaining relevance amid stringent environmental regulations and the rise of renewables. In the context of nearby plants, Asbury finds itself surrounded by a cluster of natural gas facilities, including the State Line Combined Cycle (690.5 MW), Riverton (300.2 MW), and several smaller gas plants within close proximity. This gas-dominated environment illustrates a regional trend towards cleaner energy sources, contrasting sharply with Asbury's coal-based generation. The presence of these plants enhances the reliability of the local grid while highlighting the declining role of coal in the regional energy portfolio. The energy profile of the United States is characterized by a diverse mix, yet natural gas has emerged as the leading fuel, reflecting a significant shift from coal. Asbury's contribution, though small, remains part of a larger narrative about the evolution of energy sources in the country. The facility's relatively modest share of national capacity signifies its diminishing role in a landscape increasingly defined by sustainability and innovation. Empire District Electric Co's ownership of Asbury represents a longstanding commitment to providing energy, but the future of this coal facility remains uncertain amid the push for cleaner energy solutions. The commissioning date of 1970 places Asbury in a historical context where coal was once viewed as a primary energy source, yet today, it faces the reality of an energy transition. In closing, Asbury power generation facility stands as a reminder of the coal industry's legacy in the United States. As the country progresses towards a more sustainable energy future, the challenges faced by Asbury will likely shape its operational decisions and potential for adaptation in a rapidly changing energy landscape.
56 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileCoal has long been a cornerstone of electricity generation worldwide, with a significant presence in the global energy landscape. As of recent data, there are approximately 2,608 coal power plants operating across 74 countries, boasting a total installed capacity of 2,257.3 gigawatts (GW). The leading nations in coal power generation include China, with 1,018 plants generating 1,038.0 GW, India with 287 plants at 253.3 GW, and the United States with 291 plants producing 252.0 GW. Other notable contributors include Germany and Japan, with 130 plants and 76.8 GW, and 61 plants and 63.9 GW, respectively. This widespread utilization reflects the essential role coal has played in the development of industrial and residential power systems globally.
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