Ranking as the 1510th largest power generation facility in the United States, the ExxonMobil Baytown Refinery stands out in the extensive energy landscape of Texas, contributing 0.01% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW. With a generation capacity of 177.3 MW, this gas-fired facility plays a crucial role in the local energy mix, particularly in a region dominated by natural gas as the primary fuel source. The plant, which was commissioned in 1980, employs cogeneration technology, allowing it to efficiently produce electricity while simultaneously generating usable heat for the refining process. In the vicinity of the Baytown Refinery, several other significant gas plants highlight the robust energy cluster in this part of Texas. The Cedar Bayou Power Plant, with an impressive capacity of 1530 MW, is the largest nearby facility, showcasing the scale of energy production in this region. Other nearby plants include the Deer Park Energy Center (1176 MW), Baytown Energy Center (932.9 MW), Channel Energy Center LLC (923.8 MW), and Channelview Cogeneration Plant (918.3 MW). This concentration of high-capacity gas facilities underscores the importance of natural gas in meeting both local and regional energy demands. Nationally, the United States has a total of 10,047 power generation facilities, with natural gas being the dominant fuel type. The ExxonMobil Baytown Refinery's gas rank sits at 770 out of 1883 gas plants, further emphasizing its significance within the gas sector. Although the facility's capacity represents only a small fraction of the national total, it plays an essential role in supporting the local grid and enhancing energy reliability in Texas. Operated by Exxon Mobil Refining and Supply Co., the Baytown facility has been a part of the energy landscape since the late 20th century, continuously adapting to evolving energy needs. As energy markets shift towards cleaner alternatives, the refinery's cogeneration capabilities may increasingly position it as a vital asset in providing a more sustainable energy solution while maintaining operational efficiency. Looking ahead, the plant's strategic location and technological advantages could play a pivotal role in Texas's transition to a more diversified and resilient energy future.
46 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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