R D Green is a prominent coal-fired power plant located in the heart of the United States, specifically at coordinates 37.6461° N latitude and 87.5000° W longitude. Owned and operated by Big Rivers Electric Corp, this facility plays a vital role in the energy generation landscape of the region, contributing significantly to the national and local energy mix. With a capacity of 586 MW, R D Green helps ensure a reliable supply of electricity, supporting both residential and industrial consumers in the surrounding areas. Commissioned in 1980, the plant primarily utilizes coal as its main fuel source, supplemented by petroleum coke (petcoke) as a secondary fuel. This dual-fuel approach allows for greater flexibility in operations and can enhance the plant's efficiency in energy generation. Coal-fired power plants like R D Green are essential for meeting base-load electricity demands, especially in regions where renewable energy sources are still being integrated into the grid. The facility is strategically positioned to serve the local grid, supplying power to areas that depend heavily on fossil fuels for their energy needs. The significance of R D Green extends beyond mere capacity; it also embodies the ongoing challenges and transitions in U.S. energy policy, particularly as the country moves toward cleaner energy solutions. As part of a broader coalition of coal power plants, R D Green faces scrutiny over emissions and environmental impact but remains a key player in the regional energy strategy, balancing economic and energy security considerations.
46 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 R D Green Power Plant, located in the United States, is a significant coal-fired power generation facility owned by Big Rivers Electric Corp. Commissioned in 1980, the plant boasts a total generating capacity of 586 megawatts (MW), playing a crucial role in supplying electricity to the regional grid and contributing to the overall energy landscape of the country. As a coal-based power plant, R D Green utilizes coal as its primary fuel source, which is a plentiful and historically significant energy resource in the United States. Coal combustion in power plants involves burning the fossil fuel to produce steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity. This process has been a cornerstone of energy production for decades, although it has faced increasing scrutiny due to environmental concerns. The plant's operation primarily relies on local and regional coal sources, which helps sustain the local economy while providing a reliable energy supply. However, the environmental impact of coal-fired power generation is significant. The combustion of coal releases greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2), contributing to climate change. Additionally, coal plants can emit sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, which can lead to air quality issues and associated health risks for nearby communities. In response to these challenges, R D Green has implemented various measures to reduce emissions and enhance efficiency, aligning with evolving regulatory standards aimed at minimizing the environmental footprint of coal power generation. Regionally, the R D Green Power Plant serves as a vital source of electricity for surrounding areas, particularly in regions where alternative energy sources may be limited or less developed. The plant supports local industries, businesses, and residential consumers by providing a stable and affordable electricity supply. In addition, it plays a role in maintaining grid stability, especially during peak demand periods. Despite the growing emphasis on renewable energy and a national shift towards cleaner energy sources, coal-fired power plants like R D Green continue to play a significant role in the energy mix of the United States. The facility's contribution to energy security, coupled with efforts to address its environmental impact, positions it as a notable component of the country's energy sector. As the energy landscape evolves, the future of coal plants like R D Green will depend on advancements in technology, regulatory frameworks, and the ongoing transition to a more sustainable energy system.
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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