Elk River power generation facility, located in the United States, ranks as the 1460th largest power plant in the country, with a capacity of 191.3 MW. This facility, commissioned in 2009 and operated by Great River Energy, is a notable player in the U.S. energy landscape, particularly within the natural gas sector, where it holds the 751st position among 1,883 gas plants. Elk River’s contribution, albeit at a modest 0.01% of the national capacity, reflects the diverse energy mix that characterizes the United States, which boasts a total capacity of 1,386,385 MW across 10,047 plants. The facility utilizes gas as its primary fuel, supplemented by oil, providing a flexible and efficient means of power generation that can quickly respond to fluctuations in energy demand. This operational capability is crucial for maintaining grid reliability, especially in a country where natural gas has become a dominant source of energy. Elk River's strategic location is enhanced by its proximity to larger plants, including the Sherburne County coal facility with a substantial capacity of 2,469.3 MW and the Monticello Nuclear Facility, each contributing significantly to the regional energy supply. Other nearby plants, such as High Bridge and Riverside, further bolster the local energy landscape, creating a diverse portfolio of generation sources. Within the context of the national energy profile, Elk River operates in a landscape where natural gas is increasingly favored for its lower carbon emissions compared to coal and oil. As the U.S. transitions towards cleaner energy sources, Elk River plays a role by providing reliable natural gas generation that supports the grid while working towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The facility's output contributes to the overall energy needs of the region, helping to ensure a stable supply for consumers and businesses alike. As the energy market evolves, Elk River's position within the gas sector will be critical in meeting future energy demands, especially as policies increasingly favor renewable sources. The facility's operational efficiency and ability to adapt to changing energy dynamics will be essential as the U.S. strives to achieve its climate goals. Looking forward, Elk River is poised to make significant contributions to the energy landscape, driving sustainable practices while supporting economic growth and energy reliability in the region.
17 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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