Prairie State Generating Station is a coal-fired power plant located in the United States, with a substantial generation capacity of 1,766 MW. Commissioned in 2012, this facility has quickly established itself as a key player in the energy landscape of the region. Situated at coordinates 38.2792, -89.6669, Prairie State is strategically positioned to support the energy needs of the Midwestern states, providing reliable electricity to a diverse consumer base, including residential and industrial users. Operated by Prairie State Generating Co LLC, the plant employs advanced coal technology, which enables it to produce electricity more efficiently while maintaining compliance with environmental regulations. The significance of Prairie State Generating Station extends beyond its operational capacity; it is also integral to the local grid, contributing to energy stability in an area that is experiencing fluctuating energy demands. As the U.S. moves towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, coal plants like Prairie State face scrutiny, yet they remain vital for energy generation in the short term. The facility exemplifies the challenges facing the coal industry amid a broader push for renewable energy, highlighting its role in bridging the gap between current energy needs and future sustainability objectives.
1.77 GW
14 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 Prairie State Generating Station (PSGS) is a significant coal-fired power plant located in Marissa, Illinois, with a total electrical capacity of 1,766 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 2012, it is owned and operated by Prairie State Generating Co LLC. This facility plays a critical role in the United States' energy landscape, particularly in the Midwest, where it contributes to the regional grid and supports local energy demands.
The Prairie State Generating Station primarily utilizes coal as its fuel source. This choice reflects the plant's design and operational strategy, which harnesses the abundant coal reserves available in the United States. The facility employs advanced technologies to optimize the efficiency of coal combustion and to minimize the environmental impact associated with fossil fuel usage. Various systems are in place to reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, aiming to comply with stringent environmental regulations. Additionally, PSGS incorporates state-of-the-art air quality control systems, which further enhance its operational efficiency while mitigating the effects of coal combustion on air quality.
Despite its efforts to reduce emissions, the environmental impact of coal-fired power plants remains a topic of concern. Coal combustion is associated with the release of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), which contributes to climate change. The Prairie State Generating Station's reliance on coal means that it faces challenges in aligning with the broader shift toward cleaner energy sources. As the U.S. energy sector transitions to lower-carbon alternatives, the role of coal-fired plants like PSGS is being scrutinized. However, it remains a significant provider of baseload power in the region, supplying electricity to millions of homes and businesses.
Regionally, the Prairie State Generating Station enhances energy security by providing a stable and reliable power source. It is strategically positioned to serve the electricity needs of several states in the Midwest, including Illinois and surrounding areas. The facility not only supports local economies through job creation but also contributes to the stability of the electrical grid, especially during peak demand periods. Furthermore, by utilizing domestic coal resources, PSGS lessens the reliance on imported fuels, thereby promoting energy independence.
In summary, the Prairie State Generating Station stands as a notable example of modern coal-fired energy production in the United States. With its substantial capacity of 1,766 MW, it plays a vital role in the regional energy landscape, balancing the immediate electricity demands while facing the ongoing challenges related to environmental sustainability and the transition to cleaner energy sources.
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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