United States of America

Dave Gates Generating Station— 203.1 MW Natural Gas

GasVerified: Jul 2026

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Ranking as the 1,352nd largest power generation facility out of over 10,000 in the United States, the Dave Gates Generating Station holds a modest yet crucial position in the American energy landscape. With a capacity of 203.1 MW, this gas-fired facility represents a small fraction of the nation’s overall energy output, contributing only 0.01% to the total capacity of 1,386,385 MW. The plant, commissioned in 2011 and operated by NorthWestern Energy DGGS, utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel source, with oil serving as a secondary option. This makes it one of the 735 gas plants in the U.S., underscoring its role in a country where gas is the dominant fuel type. Geographically, the Dave Gates Generating Station is situated near the Basin Creek Plant, which has a significantly lower capacity of 54.9 MW, and the Flint Creek Hydroelectric LLC, generating a mere 2 MW. This proximity highlights a diverse energy mix in the region, where gas, hydro, and oil coexist, albeit with varying capacities. The surrounding energy landscape is essential for meeting local demand and maintaining grid stability, especially as the U.S. continues to transition towards more renewable energy sources. In terms of national energy context, the United States has a vast network of power plants, with natural gas accounting for a significant portion of the energy supply. The Dave Gates Generating Station’s capacity is slightly above the national average, which reflects a broader trend of increasing reliance on gas for electricity generation. As a relatively modern facility, its efficiency and operational flexibility contribute positively to the local grid, particularly during peak demand periods. Operated by NorthWestern Energy DGGS, the station was brought online in 2011, marking its entry into an evolving energy market that is increasingly focused on cleaner and more sustainable sources. Despite being a small player on the national stage, the Dave Gates Generating Station is integral to the local energy ecosystem, supporting both economic and environmental goals. Looking ahead, the significance of this facility may grow as the nation navigates its energy transition. With ongoing discussions regarding the reduction of carbon emissions and the promotion of renewable energy, the role of gas plants like Dave Gates could shift towards providing backup power and grid reliability, helping to ensure a stable energy supply as more variable renewable sources come online.