The Hunter power plant, located in the United States of America, serves as a significant player in the national energy generation landscape, particularly in the coal sector. Operated by PacifiCorp, this facility was commissioned in 1980 and boasts an impressive capacity of 1577.2 MW, making it one of the larger coal-fired power plants in the country. Positioned at coordinates 39.1747 latitude and -111.0289 longitude, Hunter is strategically located to contribute to the local grid while supporting the broader energy needs of the region. The primary fuel source for this power generation facility is coal, supplemented by oil as a secondary fuel. This dual-fuel capability ensures a reliable energy supply, especially during peak demand periods or when coal supply may be interrupted. The technology employed at Hunter includes traditional coal-fired generation, which involves burning pulverized coal to produce steam that drives turbines for electricity generation. This method remains prevalent in many older plants despite the increasing focus on renewable energy sources across the United States. The energy produced by Hunter plays a crucial role in the energy mix of the Western U.S., where coal continues to provide a substantial portion of electricity, although its share has been declining due to environmental regulations and the rise of natural gas and renewables. The Hunter plant not only supports local energy needs but also aligns with energy policies that aim to balance traditional fossil fuel use with the transition to cleaner energy sources. As coal plants face increasing scrutiny, Hunter's operational context reflects the ongoing challenges of maintaining energy reliability while addressing environmental impacts. Overall, the Hunter power plant is a key asset within PacifiCorp’s portfolio, contributing significantly to energy generation in its region and helping to stabilize the grid during fluctuating demand.
1.58 GW
46 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
The Hunter Power Plant is a coal-fired power generation facility located in the United States, owned and operated by PacifiCorp. Commissioned in 1980, the plant has a total generating capacity of 1,577.2 megawatts (MW), making it a significant contributor to the regional energy supply. As a part of the larger energy infrastructure, Hunter Power Plant plays a crucial role in meeting the electricity demand in the western United States, particularly in Utah, where it is situated. The plant's operation aligns with the broader energy strategies of PacifiCorp, which emphasizes providing reliable and affordable power to its customers while managing the transition toward more sustainable energy sources.
The Hunter Power Plant utilizes coal as its primary fuel source, a common choice for many power generation facilities in the United States, particularly during the late 20th century. Coal-fired power plants generate electricity through the combustion of coal, which releases heat that is used to produce steam. This steam drives turbines connected to generators, converting thermal energy into electrical energy. Despite being a reliable energy source, coal combustion is associated with significant emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which can contribute to air pollution and climate change.
The environmental impact of the Hunter Power Plant is a point of concern, as coal-fired generation is one of the highest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector. Over the years, there has been increasing scrutiny on coal plants due to their role in air quality degradation and health issues in surrounding communities. In response to environmental regulations and public pressure, PacifiCorp has implemented various measures aimed at reducing emissions from the Hunter facility, including the installation of scrubbers and other pollution control technologies.
Regionally, the Hunter Power Plant holds significant importance as it provides a substantial portion of electricity to the local grid, supporting both residential and industrial consumers. The facility contributes to energy stability in the region, especially during peak demand periods. However, the shift toward renewable energy sources has prompted discussions about the future role of plants like Hunter, as states look to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and enhance the adoption of cleaner energy alternatives.
In summary, the Hunter Power Plant is a notable coal-fired power generation facility in the United States with a capacity of 1,577.2 MW. Its role in the region's energy sector is critical for reliability and supply, although it faces challenges related to environmental impact and the evolving energy landscape. As the country continues to move toward a more sustainable energy future, the ongoing operations and potential adaptations of the Hunter Power Plant will be closely monitored.
United States of America — Energy ProfileCoal has long been a cornerstone of electricity generation worldwide, with a significant presence in the global energy landscape. As of recent data, there are approximately 2,608 coal power plants operating across 74 countries, boasting a total installed capacity of 2,257.3 gigawatts (GW). The leading nations in coal power generation include China, with 1,018 plants generating 1,038.0 GW, India with 287 plants at 253.3 GW, and the United States with 291 plants producing 252.0 GW. Other notable contributors include Germany and Japan, with 130 plants and 76.8 GW, and 61 plants and 63.9 GW, respectively. This widespread utilization reflects the essential role coal has played in the development of industrial and residential power systems globally.
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