South Meadow is an oil-fired power generation facility that holds a significant position in the United States' energy landscape, ranking #44 among 879 oil plants and #1567 out of 10,047 total power plants. With a capacity of 167.2 MW, it contributes a 0.01% share to the national total capacity of 1,386,385 MW, where natural gas remains the leading fuel source. Commissioned in 1970 and operated by NAES Corp, South Meadow utilizes traditional oil combustion technology to generate electricity, which is increasingly viewed as a less favorable option in the transition towards cleaner energy sources. This facility is strategically located within a cluster of other energy generation plants, including the larger Middletown Oil facility at 786.4 MW and the Kleen Energy Systems Project at 693 MW. This proximity allows for enhanced grid interaction and energy distribution efficiency. Despite the dominance of gas and renewables in the current national energy profile, South Meadow’s role in providing a reliable energy source cannot be overlooked, especially during peak demand periods. As regulations tighten and the energy landscape shifts towards sustainability, South Meadow faces the challenge of adapting to a future that prioritizes lower-emission technologies. Nevertheless, its operational experience and established infrastructure may provide pathways for future energy innovations in the region, ensuring that the facility remains relevant in an evolving energy market.
56 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Oil
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileOil power generation involves the combustion of oil to produce electricity. The process typically begins with the extraction and refining of crude oil, which is then burned in a power plant to create steam. This steam drives turbines connected to generators, converting thermal energy into electrical energy. Oil power plants can vary in design, including steam turbine plants, gas turbine plants, and combined cycle plants, which utilize both gas and steam turbines to enhance efficiency. As of now, there are 2,416 oil power plants worldwide, distributed across 108 countries, with a total installed capacity of 286.9 gigawatts (GW).
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