Sooner power plant, situated in Oklahoma, United States, represents a significant element in the energy generation landscape of the region. This coal-fired power plant, with a capacity of 1138 MW, plays a vital role in providing baseload electricity to the local grid, ensuring that the energy demands of the area are met consistently. Owned and operated by Oklahoma Gas & Electric Co, the plant was commissioned in 1980 and has been a reliable source of energy for over four decades. The primary fuel type utilized is coal, with oil serving as a secondary fuel option, which allows for flexibility in operations and responsiveness to market demands. The generation technology at Sooner includes subcritical steam turbines, known for their ability to efficiently convert thermal energy from coal into electrical power. Located at coordinates 36.4531, -97.0528, the plant is strategically placed to serve the energy needs of Oklahoma while contributing to the state’s energy mix, which also includes a growing emphasis on renewable sources. The operational context of Sooner power plant is underpinned by Oklahoma’s energy policies, which aim to balance the use of traditional fossil fuels with the integration of cleaner energy solutions. As the nation moves towards a more sustainable energy future, Sooner continues to provide essential support to the local grid, showcasing the ongoing relevance of coal-fired power generation in the broader energy landscape.
1.14 GW
46 years old
United States of America, North America
- 330. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
- #2,163 worldwide by installed capacity
- #861 of 2,793 Coal plants worldwide
- 0.08% of the installed capacity of United States of America
46 years in operation
Coal fleet average: 29.2 years
Oklahoma Gas & Electric Co operates 14 plants totalling 8,964 MW
36 plants within 100 km, 6,307 MW combined
Location
Estimates based on Coal emission factor (820 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (55%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Coal
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Sooner Power Plant: A Key Player in Oklahoma's Energy Landscape
The Sooner Power Plant, located in the United States and owned by Oklahoma Gas & Electric Co, is a significant contributor to the region's energy supply, with a generation capacity of 1,138 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 1980, this coal-fired power facility plays a crucial role in meeting the electricity demands of Oklahoma and the surrounding areas. As a large-scale power plant, Sooner primarily utilizes coal as its fuel source, a type of fossil fuel that has historically been a cornerstone of energy production in the United States.
Coal is composed mainly of carbon, along with various other elements such as hydrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen. When burned, coal releases energy in the form of heat, which is then used to produce steam that drives turbines to generate electricity. The use of coal as a fuel type has been a traditional choice for power generation due to its abundant availability in the U.S., particularly in the central and eastern regions. However, the environmental implications of coal combustion, including greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants, have led to increased scrutiny and calls for cleaner energy alternatives.
The environmental impact of the Sooner Power Plant, like many coal-fired facilities, is multifaceted. The combustion of coal produces carbon dioxide (CO2), a significant greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. In addition, coal plants emit other pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, which can have detrimental effects on air quality and public health. In response to regulatory pressures and public concern over environmental issues, the plant has implemented various measures to reduce emissions, including the installation of scrubbers and other technologies aimed at mitigating its environmental footprint.
Regionally, the Sooner Power Plant is of considerable significance. It not only provides a substantial portion of the electricity consumed by Oklahoma Gas & Electric’s customers but also supports the local economy through job creation and infrastructure development. The plant has been a reliable source of baseload power, ensuring that the region has a stable supply of electricity, particularly during peak demand periods. Despite the transition towards renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, which have seen significant growth in Oklahoma, coal remains a vital part of the state's energy mix.
In summary, the Sooner Power Plant stands as a notable example of coal-based energy generation in the United States. While it plays an essential role in supplying electricity to the region and maintaining economic stability, the environmental challenges associated with coal use highlight the need for a balanced approach to energy production that considers both reliability and sustainability. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, the future of the Sooner Power Plant will likely reflect the broader trends in energy policy and the ongoing transition towards cleaner energy sources.
United States of America — Energy Profile
Nearby Power Plants
See Incorrect or Missing Data?
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.