The Thomas Fitzhugh Power Generation Facility stands as a noteworthy contributor to the energy landscape of the United States, ranked 1481 out of 10,047 plants nationwide. With a generation capacity of 185 MW, this facility operates primarily on natural gas, supplemented by oil, and contributes a mere 0.01% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW. Despite its modest share, Thomas Fitzhugh plays a pivotal role in the regional grid, especially as the U.S. continues to transition towards cleaner energy sources. Commissioned in 1990, this gas-fired plant utilizes advanced combustion technology to convert natural gas into electricity, ensuring high efficiency and lower emissions compared to other fossil fuel sources. Its operation is crucial, particularly given that natural gas is the dominant fuel in the U.S. energy mix, providing a flexible and reliable power source that can quickly respond to fluctuations in demand. Situated in Arkansas, Thomas Fitzhugh is part of a regional energy network that includes several nearby facilities, such as the Ozark Hydro Power Plant, which has a capacity of 100 MW, and Scenic Hill Solar III and IV, with capacities of 5 MW and 2.2 MW respectively. This diverse mix of energy generation not only complements Thomas Fitzhugh's output but also indicates a growing trend towards integrating renewable sources within the local grid. The presence of these various facilities showcases the effort to create a more sustainable energy framework in the region, albeit while still heavily reliant on fossil fuels. The U.S. energy profile is predominantly gas-driven, highlighting the importance of facilities like Thomas Fitzhugh in ensuring energy reliability during peak demand periods. This plant's relatively small capacity in the grand scheme, when compared to the vast total capacity of the United States, emphasizes the need for strategic planning and investment in larger, more sustainable projects that can support the long-term goals of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy security. Operated by Arkansas Electric Coop Corp, Thomas Fitzhugh is a key player in the region's energy strategy, allowing for cooperative energy solutions that benefit local communities. As the energy sector evolves, the facility is likely to face pressures to enhance its environmental performance and possibly integrate more renewable technologies into its operations. Looking ahead, the ongoing developments in energy policy and technology will influence how plants like Thomas Fitzhugh adapt to the changing landscape, ensuring they remain relevant in a future focused on sustainability.
36 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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