Ranking as the 1725th largest power generation facility in the United States, Hunlock Power Station holds a modest yet significant position in the energy landscape of Pennsylvania. With a capacity of 145.9 MW, this natural gas facility contributes a mere 0.01% to the nation’s total capacity of 1,386,385 MW, a statistic that underscores its role in the broader context of energy generation in the U.S. As the 826th largest gas plant out of 1883 in the country, Hunlock plays a part in the shift towards cleaner gas-fired power generation, amid a landscape dominated by gas and coal. Commissioned in 1993, this facility is operated by UGI Development Co, which has ensured the plant’s consistent performance over the years. Hunlock utilizes natural gas combined-cycle technology, optimizing efficiency and reducing emissions compared to traditional coal-fired plants. This technology not only enhances the plant's operational capacity but also aligns with the increasing regulatory demands for lower carbon footprints in energy production. Located in a region rich with energy resources, Hunlock Power Station is surrounded by several notable power generation facilities. Within a 50 km radius, the TalenEnergy Susquehanna and the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, both nuclear facilities, boast impressive capacities of 2532 MW each. In contrast, the Moxie Freedom Generation Plant, a gas facility, has a significantly higher capacity of 1058 MW, while the Hazelton gas plant contributes 171.5 MW. Additionally, the Mehoopany Wind Energy LLC, with a capacity of 140.8 MW, adds to the area's diverse energy mix, showcasing a blend of traditional and renewable resources in the local grid. In the context of the national energy profile, the U.S. energy sector is characterized by its heavy reliance on gas, which serves as the dominant fuel source. This emphasis on natural gas is pivotal as the country seeks to transition away from more polluting fossil fuels. Despite its relatively small share of national capacity, Hunlock Power Station plays a role in this transition, providing flexibility and reliability to the grid amidst fluctuating energy demands. Looking ahead, the significance of Hunlock Power Station may increase as energy policies evolve and the focus shifts toward sustainable energy practices. The growing demand for cleaner energy solutions positions gas plants like Hunlock as essential components in bridging the gap between traditional energy sources and an increasingly renewable future. As the U.S. continues to navigate the complexities of energy generation, Hunlock stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of the energy landscape.
33 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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