United States of America

Prairie Creek— 213.4 MW Natural Gas

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Ranked as the 1312th largest power generation facility in the United States, Prairie Creek holds a notable place in the nation’s energy landscape, contributing 213.4 MW of capacity. This gas-fired plant, operated by Interstate Power and Light Co, was commissioned in 1966 and represents a small yet significant portion of the U.S. energy grid, accounting for approximately 0.02% of the national capacity. The plant's dual fuel capability, utilizing both gas and coal, enhances its operational flexibility, allowing it to adapt to varying demand and fuel availability. Situated in a region with a diverse energy portfolio, Prairie Creek is surrounded by several other power generation facilities that further illustrate the energy dynamics of the area. Within a 50-kilometer radius, it neighbors the Duane Arnold Energy Center, a nuclear facility boasting a capacity of 679.5 MW, highlighting the contrast in fuel types and generation methods. Other nearby plants include the Archer Daniels Midland Cedar Rapids, a coal facility with a capacity of 294.6 MW, and Coralville GT, a smaller gas plant generating 72 MW. This regional energy cluster underscores the importance of Prairie Creek in providing reliable power alongside these larger facilities, ensuring stability in the local grid. Nationally, the U.S. operates 10,047 plants with a total capacity of 1,386,385 MW, predominantly fueled by gas. Prairie Creek, while smaller, plays a vital role in this larger framework, especially given the increasing reliance on natural gas as a cleaner alternative to coal. The plant's share of national capacity reflects the broader transition within the energy sector, emphasizing the importance of maintaining diverse energy sources. As the U.S. continues to evolve its energy policies and infrastructure, Prairie Creek stands as a testament to the historical significance of older facilities while remaining relevant in today’s energy discussions. The operational reliability provided by Prairie Creek not only supports local communities but also bolsters economic activities in the region, making it a pivotal player in the transition towards a more flexible and sustainable energy future.