The Gilroy Peaking Energy Center stands out in the energy landscape of the United States not only for its capacity of 135 MW but also for its distinctive role as a gas-fired facility in a country where gas is the dominant fuel type. Ranked 1773rd among 10,047 power generation facilities in the nation, it holds the 848th position among 1883 gas plants, reflecting its importance within the local energy framework. Commissioned in 2001 and operated by Calpine Gilroy Cogen LP, this facility utilizes advanced gas turbine technology to generate electricity quickly and efficiently, making it a crucial asset for meeting peak demand periods in California. The Gilroy Peaking Energy Center is part of a vibrant energy community, surrounded by several large gas plants, including the Dynegy Moss Landing Power Plant Hybrid at 1398 MW and the Metcalf Energy Center at 635 MW. Additionally, the Los Esteros Critical Energy Center and Facility, each generating 306.1 MW, along with the Donald Von Raesfeld Power Plant at 154 MW, illustrate the concentration of natural gas generation in this region. This cluster of plants highlights California's strategy to ensure reliability and flexibility in its energy supply, particularly as it navigates the transition towards more renewable sources. While Gilroy Peaking contributes a modest share to the state's massive total capacity of 1,386,385 MW, its significance is amplified during high-demand periods, demonstrating the critical role of peaking plants in stabilizing the grid. As California continues to pursue ambitious renewable energy targets, the Gilroy facility plays an essential role in balancing the energy mix, ensuring that the state can meet its growing energy demands while working towards a sustainable future. The ongoing operation of the Gilroy Peaking Energy Center is a vital component of California's energy strategy, highlighting the importance of gas as a bridging fuel in the quest for cleaner energy solutions.
25 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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