Ranked as the 1643rd largest power generation facility out of over 10,000 in the United States, the Hal C Weaver Power Plant holds significant importance within its regional energy context. With a capacity of 152.5 MW, this gas-fired facility contributes a mere 0.01% to the national energy landscape, where gas dominates the fuel spectrum. Commissioned in 1990 and operated by the University of Texas at Austin, the plant employs advanced gas turbine technology to deliver reliable power, showcasing the efficient use of natural gas in electricity generation. Located in close proximity to several larger facilities, including the Decker Creek Power Plant with its impressive 932 MW capacity, the Hal C Weaver Power Plant plays a vital role in the local energy cluster. Other nearby plants such as the Sand Hill Power Plant (696.4 MW) and Bastrop Energy Center (618.7 MW) further illustrate the region's reliance on gas as a primary fuel source. This context underscores the facility's function in stabilizing the grid, especially during peak demand periods. In comparison, the average capacity of gas plants in the U.S. is significantly higher, which highlights the Hal C Weaver's relatively smaller scale. Nevertheless, its operational capabilities are essential in maintaining energy security in Texas, contributing to the overall dynamics of the state's energy market. The facility's location is particularly interesting, as it stands alongside hydroelectric and solar plants like the Marshall Ford (108 MW) and Webberville Solar Project (30 MW), showcasing a diverse energy portfolio in the region. The operational strategy of the Hal C Weaver Power Plant aligns with the national trend towards cleaner energy, focusing on leveraging natural gas as a bridge fuel while supporting the transition to more renewable sources. As the U.S. continues to evolve in its energy generation landscape, the Hal C Weaver Power Plant not only exemplifies the utilization of gas but also plays a critical role in the region's energy diversity and future sustainability initiatives.
36 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
Gas 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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