Centinela Solar Energy, with an impressive capacity of 174.8 MW, is positioned at #1525 among 10,047 power generation facilities in the United States. This ranking, while modest, reflects its essential contribution to the national energy landscape, comprising 0.01% of the total capacity of 1,386,385 MW. As the 31st largest solar facility out of 3,289 solar plants, Centinela underscores the growing significance of solar energy within the U.S. energy framework, which is predominantly powered by natural gas. Employing advanced photovoltaic technology, Centinela Solar Energy converts sunlight directly into electricity, harnessing one of the most abundant renewable resources available. The facility is strategically located in a solar-rich area, surrounded by significant gas plants such as Central de ciclo combinado La Rosita (1,405 MW) and Termoelectrica de Mexicali (679.7 MW), which highlights the juxtaposition of renewable and fossil fuel energy sources in the region. This blend of energy generation methods is vital for ensuring grid stability and reliability, particularly in peak demand periods. In the context of the U.S. energy profile, where natural gas is the dominant fuel, Centinela Solar Energy plays a crucial role in diversifying the energy mix and supporting the shift towards cleaner energy sources. As the demand for renewable energy continues to rise, the facility's contribution becomes increasingly significant. Operated by Centinela Solar Energy LLC, the plant was commissioned in 2013 and has since provided a reliable source of clean energy, fostering economic development and job creation in the region. Although its share of the national capacity may be small, Centinela Solar Energy is part of a larger movement towards sustainable energy solutions. The growth of solar power is becoming paramount as the U.S. seeks to reduce its carbon footprint and meet future energy demands. As technology continues to evolve and solar energy becomes more cost-competitive, the importance of facilities like Centinela will only increase. This power generation facility not only represents progress in renewable energy adoption but also paves the way for a sustainable energy future in the United States.
13 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Solar
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileSolar power generation harnesses the sun's energy using photovoltaic (PV) cells or solar thermal systems to produce electricity. The basic principle of solar power generation involves converting sunlight into usable energy. When sunlight hits a PV cell, it excites electrons in the semiconductor material, generating an electric current. This process is known as the photovoltaic effect. Solar thermal systems, on the other hand, use sunlight to heat a fluid that, in turn, produces steam to drive a turbine and generate electricity. Both methods provide a clean and renewable energy source that is gaining significant traction worldwide.
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