The Optim Energy Altura Cogen LLC 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 643.6 MW. Its primary operation relies on harnessing gas energy resources to generate bulk electricity. Operational management and ownership of the facility are handled by the Optim Energy LLC, which oversees daily maintenance and grid dispatch integration. The facility was officially connected to the commercial grid in 1987, 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, Optim Energy Altura Cogen LLC occupies the #348 position among all operational gas power plants. Its 643.6 MW capacity represents a 0.11% 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 Optim Energy Altura Cogen LLC approximately 6.6 times smaller by comparison. Across all fuel types and electricity generation technologies country-wide, this facility accounts for 0.0464% 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 2,255,174 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 205,016 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 29.8161° latitude and -95.1077° longitude. Analysis of local grid infrastructure shows a density of other assets within a 50-kilometer radius. These nearby facilities include the Cedar Bayou (gas-fired, 1530 MW), the T H Wharton (gas-fired, 1189.9 MW), the Deer Park Energy Center (gas-fired, 1176 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.
39 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
Optim Energy Altura Cogen LLC: A Key Player in US Energy Generation
Optim Energy Altura Cogen LLC is a natural gas-fired cogeneration power plant located in the United States of America. With a total generation capacity of 643.6 megawatts (MW), the facility plays a significant role in the country's energy sector, providing essential electricity and thermal energy to the regional grid. Commissioned in 1987 and owned by Optim Energy LLC, Altura Cogen has been a reliable source of power for over three decades, contributing to the stability and diversity of energy supply in the region.
The plant utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel source, which is a cleaner alternative to coal and oil. Natural gas combustion emits significantly lower levels of harmful pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter, compared to traditional fossil fuels. This makes Altura Cogen an important component in the transition to a more sustainable energy portfolio. Furthermore, natural gas plants can quickly adjust their output to meet fluctuating electricity demand, thus enhancing grid reliability and efficiency. The cogeneration aspect of the facility allows it to simultaneously produce electricity and utilize waste heat for thermal applications, increasing the overall energy efficiency of the plant.
In terms of environmental impact, the use of natural gas at Altura Cogen results in reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to coal-fired power plants. While natural gas is not free of emissions, it is considered a transitional fuel towards a low-carbon future. The operational efficiency and lower emissions profile of the plant align with national efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of the energy sector. However, it is important to recognize that the extraction and transportation of natural gas can also have environmental implications, such as potential methane leaks, which need to be managed carefully.
Regionally, Optim Energy Altura Cogen LLC serves a vital role in meeting the energy needs of its surrounding communities and industries. Its output supports local economic development and provides power during peak demand periods, which is essential for maintaining grid stability. The plant's ability to deliver both electricity and thermal energy makes it particularly valuable for industries that require high levels of energy for operations, thus fostering economic growth in the area.
Overall, Optim Energy Altura Cogen LLC stands as an important asset within the United States energy landscape. By leveraging natural gas, the facility contributes to a cleaner energy mix while ensuring the reliable supply of electricity and thermal energy. Its operational longevity and capacity underscore its significance in supporting both local and national energy goals.
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.
See Incorrect or Missing Data?
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.