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Buzzard Point Power Plant288 MW Gas

Gas

Buzzard Point Power Plant stands as a significant contributor to the energy generation landscape of the United States, specifically located in Washington, D.C. Commissioned in 1933, this gas-fired power generation facility boasts a substantial capacity of 288 MW. Operated by the Potomac Electric Power Company, it plays a crucial role in providing reliable electricity to the local grid, supporting both residential and commercial needs in one of the nation's most vital urban areas. The facility utilizes advanced gas generation technology, which is known for its efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional coal-fired plants. The strategic location of Buzzard Point, at coordinates 38.8653, -77.0116, allows it to effectively serve the densely populated region of D.C., where energy demand is consistently high. As part of the broader energy mix of the United States, Buzzard Point aligns with national policies aimed at transitioning towards cleaner energy sources while ensuring grid reliability. This makes the power plant not only an essential part of local infrastructure but also a key player in the ongoing evolution of the country’s energy landscape.

Capacity
288 MW
Commissioning Year
1933

93 years old

Owner
Potomac Electric Power Company
Location
38.8653°, -77.0116°

United States of America, North America

Location

Coordinates:: 38.865280, -77.011630
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Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
556.3 Kt
1135 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
51.74 Mt
Over 93 years of operation
Past Retirement
1963
63 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
120.9K
cars per year
74.2K
homes per year
25.3M
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 Plant Database

United States of AmericaEnergy Profile

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

Gas Power Generation: An Overview of Its Mechanisms, Benefits, and Future Prospects

Gas 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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