The Oak Grove Power Plant, located in Texas, USA, is a coal-fired power generation facility with a substantial capacity of 1795.4 MW. This plant, commissioned in 2010 and operated by Luminant Generation Company LLC, plays a significant role in the energy mix of the region, contributing to the reliability and diversity of power supply in the state. The facility utilizes advanced coal technology, which includes state-of-the-art emissions controls to reduce the environmental impact associated with coal energy generation. Situated at coordinates 31.1803, -96.4866, this facility is strategically located to serve the growing energy demands of Texas, one of the largest electricity consumers in the United States. The Oak Grove Power Plant not only supports the local grid but also integrates with the larger energy network across the state, aligning with Texas' energy policies that emphasize a blend of traditional and renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the plant's ability to utilize gas as a secondary fuel enhances its operational flexibility, allowing it to adjust to fluctuations in demand and generation conditions. As Texas continues to diversify its energy portfolio, the Oak Grove Power Plant remains a critical component of the state's energy generation strategy, ensuring a stable and affordable electricity supply.
1.80 GW
16 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 Oak Grove Power Plant, located in Texas, is a significant coal-fired power generation facility with a total capacity of 1,795.4 megawatts (MW). Owned by Luminant Generation Company LLC, the plant was commissioned in 2010 and plays a crucial role in supplying electricity to the state's energy grid. As Texas is one of the largest consumers of electricity in the United States, the Oak Grove Power Plant contributes to the state's energy needs by providing a reliable source of baseload power. This is particularly important in a state that experiences fluctuating demand due to its large population and diverse economic activities.
The Oak Grove facility utilizes coal as its primary fuel source, which has been a traditional energy source in the United States for decades. Coal is known for its abundance and cost-effectiveness, making it a popular choice for large-scale electricity generation. However, the combustion of coal releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which can contribute to air quality issues and climate change. In response to environmental concerns, the Oak Grove Power Plant has implemented various emission control technologies to mitigate its impact. These include scrubbers and other systems designed to reduce the release of harmful emissions, aligning with federal and state regulations intended to protect air quality.
Despite its reliance on coal, Oak Grove has been part of the broader transition in the energy sector toward more sustainable practices. The plant's operation is often evaluated within the context of Texas's overall energy strategy, which includes a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. Texas is a leader in wind energy production, and the integration of renewable sources into the energy mix is an ongoing process. Oak Grove, therefore, operates as a counterbalance to these intermittent resources, providing stability to the grid when renewable generation may not meet demand.
The regional significance of the Oak Grove Power Plant extends beyond its immediate electricity generation capabilities. It contributes to job creation and economic activity in the area, supporting local businesses and infrastructure. Additionally, the plant plays a role in energy security for Texas, ensuring that the state has a robust and diversified energy portfolio that can withstand fluctuations in energy supply and demand.
In conclusion, the Oak Grove Power Plant represents a critical component of Texas's energy framework. While it relies on coal as a fuel source, it also embodies the challenges and opportunities facing traditional energy generation in an era increasingly focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, the role of facilities like Oak Grove will be important in balancing economic needs with environmental considerations.
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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