Ranking as the 1460th largest power generation facility in the United States, Elk River Station holds a modest yet significant position within the country's expansive energy landscape. With a capacity of 191.3 MW, this gas-fired plant contributes a mere 0.01% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW, which is dominated by natural gas as the primary fuel source. Elk River's significance lies not only in its output but also in its role within a region populated by more substantial facilities. Notably, within 50 km, the Sherburne County plant boasts a robust coal capacity of 2469.3 MW, while the Monticello Nuclear Facility and its counterpart, the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant, each provide 685 MW of nuclear power. This contrasts sharply against Elk River's gas capacity, highlighting the diverse energy mix in the area. Nearby, the High Bridge and Riverside (MN) plants also contribute gas power, with capacities of 644 MW and 585.9 MW, respectively. This cluster of energy facilities enhances the reliability and resilience of the regional grid, providing a blend of fuels that caters to fluctuating demand. Nationally, the U.S. operates a staggering 10,047 plants, of which 1,883 are gas plants. Elk River Station's capacity is notably below the average capacity per plant, suggesting its role is more supportive within the regional energy framework rather than as a primary power generator. Operated by an unnamed entity, Elk River's integration into the grid underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced energy portfolio. The continued reliance on gas as a dominant fuel in the U.S. reflects both the economic and environmental ramifications of energy generation. As the energy landscape evolves with increasing attention to renewable sources, Elk River Station may play a pivotal role in the transition phase, ensuring stability while the shift towards greener alternatives gains momentum.
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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