Ranked as the 1530th largest power generation facility in the United States, SPA Cogen 3 stands out in California’s diverse energy landscape with its capacity of 173.9 MW. This gas-fired power plant plays a critical role in supporting the region's energy needs, contributing a modest 0.01% to the nation’s total capacity of 1,386,385 MW across 10,047 plants. As the 778th largest gas plant in the country, SPA Cogen 3 is part of a significant gas generation cluster, showcasing the state’s reliance on natural gas as a primary energy source. Commissioned in 1998 and operated by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District, SPA Cogen 3 utilizes advanced gas turbine technology to efficiently convert natural gas into electricity. This facility not only generates power but also contributes to the local economy by providing jobs and supporting ancillary services. Its strategic location near other substantial energy producers enhances its effectiveness within the grid, particularly when demand surges. Within a 50-kilometer radius, SPA Cogen 3 is complemented by several other key facilities. Notably, the Rancho Seco Nuclear Generating Station operates at a capacity of 918 MW, showcasing a contrasting fuel type and significantly higher output. Gas facilities such as the nearby Cosumnes Power Plant, with a capacity of 556.8 MW, and the Lodi Energy Center, generating 288.9 MW, further emphasize the region's heavy reliance on natural gas. The Solano Wind facility, generating 228.2 MW, introduces a renewable dimension to the local energy mix, highlighting California's commitment to diversifying its energy sources. In the broader context of California’s energy profile, natural gas remains the dominant fuel type, accounting for a significant portion of the state's electricity generation. SPA Cogen 3’s output contributes to this gas-dominated narrative, albeit in a small capacity. Its operational efficiency and relatively modern technology ensure that it remains a reliable player in the state’s energy portfolio. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, SPA Cogen 3 is poised to adapt to future energy demands and environmental challenges. The plant’s presence within this intricate network of power generation facilities not only supports local energy needs but also underscores the importance of natural gas in achieving energy security and sustainability goals in California.
28 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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