The Kyrene is a key infrastructure asset in United States of America's power generation grid, located on the continent of North America. Designated as a fossil fuel electricity generation station, the facility features an installed capacity of 573.7 MW. Its primary operation relies on harnessing gas energy resources to generate bulk electricity. To ensure flexibility and reliability, the station is also configured to utilize oil as an auxiliary or secondary fuel source. Operational management and ownership of the facility are handled by the Salt River Project, which oversees daily maintenance and grid dispatch integration. The facility was officially connected to the commercial grid in 1983, since which it has maintained regular output, playing a structured role in domestic power supply security. In terms of domestic production capacity within United States of America, Kyrene occupies the #408 position among all operational gas power plants. Its 573.7 MW capacity represents a 0.10% share of United States of America's total installed gas generating capacity, which currently stands at 592,647 MW. The largest operational gas installation in United States of America is the West County Energy Center with an output of 4,263 MW, making the Kyrene approximately 7.4 times smaller by comparison. Across all fuel types and electricity generation technologies country-wide, this facility accounts for 0.0414% of United States of America's aggregate generation capacity of 1,386,385 MW. Based on historical capacity factors characteristic of gas power plants (modeled at 40% for analysis), the facility's expected annual electricity generation is calculated at approximately 2,010,245 MWh. Applying domestic consumption statistics where an average household in United States of America consumes 11 MWh of electricity annually, this level of production is sufficient to meet the energy demands of roughly 182,750 homes. By utilizing traditional thermal power processes, the station delivers reliable dispatchable energy to the grid, supporting grid resilience during periods of low renewable resource availability and satisfying industrial base-load demands. The physical site of the station is located at geographic coordinates 33.3556° latitude and -111.9353° longitude. Analysis of local grid infrastructure shows a density of other assets within a 50-kilometer radius. These nearby facilities include the Santan (gas-fired, 1326 MW), the West Phoenix (gas-fired, 1207.4 MW), the Ocotillo (gas-fired, 915.7 MW), representing a cluster of localized power assets. This geographic placement is vital for reinforcing regional distribution infrastructure and minimizing transmission line losses across this sector of United States of America.
43 years old
United States of America, North America
Location
Estimates based on Gas emission factor (490 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (45%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Gas
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Kyrene Power Plant: A Key Player in Arizona's Energy Landscape
The Kyrene Power Plant, located in Tempe, Arizona, is a natural gas-fired power generation facility with a capacity of 573.7 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 1983, the plant is owned and operated by the Salt River Project (SRP), one of the largest public power utilities in the United States. As a significant contributor to the region's energy supply, Kyrene plays a crucial role in meeting the electricity demands of the Phoenix metropolitan area and surrounding regions.
Kyrene utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel source, which is a cleaner alternative compared to coal and oil. Natural gas combustion produces lower emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other pollutants, making it a more environmentally friendly option for power generation. The plant employs advanced combustion technologies to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact. This focus on cleaner energy sources aligns with national and state efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition towards more sustainable energy practices.
As part of the broader energy sector in the United States, the Kyrene Power Plant contributes to a diverse energy mix that includes renewable sources such as solar and wind, as well as traditional fossil fuels. The plant's ability to ramp up electricity production quickly makes it an essential component of the grid, providing reliable backup during peak demand periods and helping to stabilize the overall electricity supply. This capability is especially valuable in Arizona, where temperatures can soar, leading to increased air conditioning usage and higher electricity consumption.
The environmental impact of the Kyrene Power Plant is relatively modest compared to older, coal-fired power plants. Nevertheless, like all natural gas facilities, it still contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The plant's operators are committed to adhering to stringent environmental regulations and continuously seeking ways to improve operational efficiency and reduce emissions further. As part of this commitment, SRP has invested in various initiatives aimed at enhancing sustainability and increasing the share of renewable energy in its portfolio.
Regionally, the Kyrene Power Plant is significant not only as a power producer but also as an economic driver for the local community. It provides numerous jobs and contributes to the local tax base, supporting public services and infrastructure. Additionally, the plant's strategic location near major natural gas pipelines enables efficient fuel delivery, which is essential for reliable electricity generation.
In conclusion, the Kyrene Power Plant serves as a pivotal asset in Arizona's energy landscape, combining the benefits of natural gas generation with a commitment to environmental stewardship and community support. As the energy sector continues to evolve, Kyrene remains a key player in ensuring a stable and sustainable energy future for the region.
United States of America — Energy Profile
Nearby Power Plants
Gas Power Generation: An Overview of Its Mechanisms, Benefits, and Future Prospects
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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