World Power Plants

The Markham power generation facility holds a distinctive position as the 1827th largest power plant in the United States, contributing a respectable 128.4 MW of hydroelectric capacity. This ranking highlights its significance in a country dominated by gas-fired plants, which comprise a substantial portion of the national energy infrastructure. With a total of 10,047 plants across the U.S., the Markham facility plays a critical role in diversifying the energy mix, especially in a region where hydro resources are crucial for sustainable power generation. As the 161st largest hydro plant out of 1,469 in the United States, Markham exemplifies the potential of renewable energy sources in a landscape heavily reliant on fossil fuels. The plant employs traditional hydroelectric technology, harnessing the flow of water to generate electricity efficiently. This method is not only renewable but also provides a consistent energy output that complements intermittent sources like wind and solar. Located near other significant power generation facilities such as the GREC gas plant with a capacity of 1734.3 MW and the Chouteau gas facility at 1069.6 MW, Markham is part of a diverse energy cluster. Nearby, the Salina hydro facility generates 259.2 MW, while Pensacola and Fort Gibson add to the regional hydro capacity with 130.1 MW and 44.8 MW, respectively. This juxtaposition of gas and hydro plants illustrates the local energy ecosystem's balance, addressing both demand and supply challenges. Overall, Markham's 128.4 MW contributes to approximately 0.01% of the total national capacity of 1,386,385 MW, underscoring its role in a nation where gas remains the dominant fuel source. Operated by the Grand River Dam Authority and commissioned in 1964, Markham has been a steadfast contributor to the local power grid for decades. Looking ahead, the facility’s continued operation promises not only to support regional energy needs but also to reinforce the importance of hydroelectric power in the transition towards a more sustainable energy future.

Capacity
128.4 MW
Commissioning Year
1964

62 years old

Owner
Grand River Dam Authority
Location
36.2317°, -95.1822°

United States of America, North America

Context & rankings
  • 1,878. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
  • #9,047 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,968 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.01% of the installed capacity of United States of America
Age & fleet comparison

62 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Grand River Dam Authority operates 4 plants totalling 2,252 MW

Regional density

24 plants within 100 km, 11,305 MW combined

Nearest plant: Salina (7.9 km)

Location

Coordinates:: 36.231700, -95.182200
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Markham is a hydro power plant producing approximately 450 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
United States of America
Continent
North America
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

United States of AmericaEnergy Profile

10,098
Total Plants
1420.7 GW
Total Capacity
GasCoalNuclearWind
Top Fuels

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