Ranking as the 1451st largest power generation facility in the United States, Cambridge CT stands out not only for its capacity of 194.2 MW but also for its strategic role in the local energy landscape amidst a cluster of gas and oil plants. Commissioned in 2003 and operated by Great River Energy, this facility primarily utilizes natural gas, with oil as a secondary fuel source. The technology employed allows for efficient energy generation, contributing to the overall reliability of the regional grid. Located in Minnesota, Cambridge CT plays a critical role in supporting the state's energy needs, accounting for a modest 0.01% of the national capacity, which totals over 1.3 million MW across more than 10,000 plants. Within a 50 km radius, the plant is surrounded by other significant facilities, including the Elk River Station and Elk River, both utilizing gas with comparable capacities of 191.3 MW. Additionally, the North Star Solar Project, a notable solar facility generating 100 MW, adds renewable energy diversity to the mix. The presence of these neighboring plants illustrates a concentrated energy hub, enhancing grid stability and providing options for energy sourcing. The plant's gas capacity ranks it 745th among 1883 gas plants across the country, indicating its relevance within this particular fuel sector. While gas remains the dominant fuel type in the U.S. energy profile, Cambridge CT's contribution, albeit small, is vital for maintaining energy flow, especially during peak demand periods. As energy markets transition towards more sustainable practices, the facility's role may evolve, potentially incorporating more renewable solutions in the future. Cambridge CT exemplifies the balance between traditional and emerging energy sources, reflecting the ongoing transformation of the American energy landscape.
23 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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