United States of America

Taconite Harbor Energy Center— 168 MW Coal

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Ranked as the 1556th largest power generation facility in the United States, Taconite Harbor Energy Center stands out amidst the nation's extensive energy landscape. With a coal capacity of 168 MW, it is the 227th largest coal plant among 297 such facilities in the country, highlighting its role in the regional energy supply. The plant, owned and operated by ALLETE Inc., was commissioned in 1957, marking it as a long-standing contributor to the local grid. Taconite Harbor operates primarily on coal, with oil serving as a secondary fuel source, a combination that reflects the plant's commitment to providing reliable energy even as the nation shifts towards more sustainable sources. Located near the shores of Lake Superior, the facility's geographical position offers both logistical advantages and a unique environmental context. Within a 50 km radius, the Silver Bay Power plant produces 131.6 MW, providing a comparative scale of regional energy production. While Taconite Harbor's 0.01% share of the United States' total capacity of 1,386,385 MW may seem modest, it contributes to the overall energy mix that is increasingly dominated by natural gas. The U.S. energy profile reveals a complex interaction between traditional coal plants and the burgeoning demand for cleaner alternatives. As the country transitions towards renewable energy, Taconite Harbor Energy Center symbolizes both the historical significance of coal in American energy and the challenges it faces in a changing landscape. The plant's operational longevity is a testament to ALLETE Inc.'s ongoing commitment to maintaining its infrastructure, balancing energy needs with environmental considerations. Looking ahead, the future of Taconite Harbor may be influenced by advancements in carbon capture technology and shifts in regulatory frameworks, as the plant seeks to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive energy market.