The River Hills power generation facility, with a capacity of 128 MW, is ranked 1829th among the 10,047 power plants in the United States. As the 857th largest gas-fired plant in the country, which predominantly relies on natural gas for energy production, River Hills contributes significantly to the energy landscape of Iowa. Commissioned in 1966 and owned by MidAmerican Energy Co, this facility epitomizes the continued reliance on gas as a primary energy source within the region, aligning with national trends where gas constitutes the dominant fuel type. Located near a cluster of gas plants, River Hills is strategically positioned within a vibrant energy network. Nearby facilities include the Greater Des Moines plant, boasting a capacity of 576.3 MW, and the Pleasant Hill facility at 179.8 MW. These plants collectively underscore the region's strong commitment to natural gas, which serves as a critical backbone for meeting energy demands in Iowa. Despite River Hills' smaller capacity, its operational significance is amplified by the surrounding infrastructure, ensuring a reliable energy supply for local consumers. In the context of the broader U.S. energy profile, with a total capacity of 1,386,385 MW across its 10,047 plants, the emphasis on gas energy is clear. River Hills' contribution, while representing a small fraction of the total national capacity, plays a vital role in fostering energy security and stability within Iowa's grid. The facility has been a reliable power source since its commissioning, and MidAmerican Energy Co continues to oversee its operations, ensuring that it meets the evolving energy needs of the community. The role of River Hills, along with its neighboring plants, is critical in maintaining a balanced energy mix that supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability. Looking to the future, River Hills is positioned to adapt to the evolving energy landscape, where the integration of renewable sources alongside traditional gas plants will be key. As the U.S. transitions towards greater sustainability, River Hills remains a crucial component of Iowa's energy strategy, supporting local infrastructure while contributing to the broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency.
60 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Gas
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileGas 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.
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