Papalote Creek I LLC, with a capacity of 180 MW, ranks as the 1498th largest power generation facility in the United States and stands as the 209th largest wind plant out of 1142 across the nation. This relatively small but impactful facility accounts for approximately 0.01% of the total national capacity of 1,386,385 MW. Commissioned in 2009 and operated by RWE Renewables Americas LLC, Papalote Creek harnesses wind energy, a clean and renewable resource that is becoming increasingly vital in the context of climate change and energy transition. Located in a region dominated by gas-fired power generation, Papalote Creek is surrounded by several significant gas plants, including the Barney M Davis facility with a capacity of 1082.2 MW, Nueces Bay at 730.2 MW, and the Corpus Christi Energy Center at 593.3 MW. This juxtaposition of wind and gas facilities illustrates the complexities of the energy grid in Texas, where renewable sources are gradually being integrated into a predominantly fossil fuel-based system. Unlike many other plants in the vicinity, which rely on natural gas, Papalote Creek contributes to a diversified energy mix, exemplifying the shift toward cleaner generation methods. Texas is known for its vast wind resources, making it a leader in wind energy production, and Papalote Creek plays a small yet crucial role in this landscape. The national energy profile of the U.S. is heavily skewed towards gas, which underscores the importance of wind facilities like Papalote Creek in achieving a balanced and sustainable energy future. As renewable technologies continue to advance, plants like Papalote Creek will be integral in meeting growing energy demands while reducing carbon emissions. Looking ahead, the role of Papalote Creek in the local grid will likely expand as Texas continues to invest in wind energy infrastructure, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient energy system. By embracing renewable sources, Papalote Creek exemplifies the commitment to environmental stewardship while providing reliable energy to the region.
17 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Wind
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileWind power generation harnesses the kinetic energy of wind to produce electricity, making it one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources globally. This process begins with wind turbines, which consist of large blades mounted on a tower. As the wind blows, it causes the blades to rotate, transforming the wind's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then converted into electrical energy through a generator connected to the turbine. The efficiency of wind turbines has significantly improved over the past decades, with modern designs capable of generating power even at low wind speeds.
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.