Ranked as the 1161st largest power generation facility in the United States, the Gibson City Energy Center LLC holds a significant position within the vast American energy landscape. This gas-fired power plant, with a capacity of 270 MW, contributes a modest 0.02% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW, reflecting the extensive network of power plants across the country. The facility primarily utilizes natural gas for its operations, with oil as a secondary fuel, aligning with the country’s dominant reliance on gas for energy generation, which comprises a substantial portion of the national energy mix. Commissioned in 2000 and operated by Mainline Generation LLC, the Gibson City Energy Center employs advanced gas turbine technology, which is known for its efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional coal-fired plants. This technology is crucial, especially in a time when the U.S. is shifting toward cleaner energy sources. The facility's relatively compact capacity means it plays a supportive role in the regional energy grid, helping to balance demand and supply in its locality. Geographically, Gibson City Energy Center is part of a diverse energy cluster in Central Illinois. Within a 50 km radius, several notable power generation facilities are located, including the Clinton Nuclear Generating Station and Clinton Power Station, both boasting capacities of 1138.3 MW. Additionally, the nearby Goose Creek Energy Center, which has a capacity of 684 MW, further underscores the area's reliance on gas-fired electricity generation. Wind energy also plays a role in the local energy landscape, highlighted by the Bright Stalk Wind Farm I and High Trail Wind Farm LLC, with capacities of 205.2 MW and 198 MW, respectively. This juxtaposition of gas, nuclear, and renewable sources illustrates the varied energy portfolio in the region, allowing for a more resilient and stable energy supply. On a national scale, with a total of 10,047 plants across the United States, the Gibson City Energy Center's contribution may seem minor, but it is an integral part of the energy transition. The U.S. is gradually moving away from coal dominance, and facilities like Gibson City, with its gas capabilities, are positioned to support this shift while providing reliable electricity to homes and businesses. Looking ahead, the Gibson City Energy Center will play a crucial role in meeting the energy needs of the region while also adapting to the evolving energy policies that favor cleaner technologies. As the country aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, plants like Gibson City are essential in providing a transitional solution, balancing reliability with the pursuit of a sustainable energy future.
26 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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