W H Weatherspoon power generation facility ranks as the 1584th largest power plant in the United States, with a capacity of 163 MW. This oil-fired plant, operated by Duke Energy Progress, contributes a mere 0.01% to the nation’s extensive energy portfolio, which encompasses 10,047 plants and a staggering total capacity of 1,386,385 MW. While the plant’s contribution may seem small in the grand scheme of the U.S. energy landscape, its operational significance is heightened given the historical reliance on oil as a fuel source. Commissioned in 1970, W H Weatherspoon employs traditional oil combustion technology to generate electricity, which, although less common today, still plays a role in diversifying the energy mix. Within a 50-kilometer radius, W H Weatherspoon is surrounded by a cluster of solar power facilities, including Innovative Solar 46, Innovative Solar 42, and Shoe Creek Solar LLC, which have capacities ranging from 35 MW to 78.5 MW. This juxtaposition of oil and solar power highlights the ongoing transition in the energy sector, where renewable sources are becoming increasingly prominent. In this context, W H Weatherspoon serves as a reminder of the historical importance of fossil fuels while illustrating the shift toward cleaner alternatives. Despite its age, the facility remains a crucial part of the local energy infrastructure, providing a reliable power source in a region that is embracing solar technology. The U.S. energy profile indicates a dominant reliance on gas, but plants like W H Weatherspoon still contribute to a diverse energy portfolio. As renewable energies gain traction, the future of oil plants like W H Weatherspoon may involve adaptations to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Therefore, this facility’s role in the energy landscape will be monitored closely as the country moves toward a more sustainable energy future.
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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