West Campus Cogeneration Facility, with a capacity of 169.3 MW, ranks as the 1550th largest power generation facility in the United States. Owned and operated by Madison Gas & Electric Co, this plant was commissioned in 2004 and primarily utilizes gas as its fuel source, supplemented by oil. Contributing just 0.01% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW, West Campus Cogeneration Facility is part of a diverse energy landscape where natural gas is the dominant fuel type. In its immediate vicinity, the facility is surrounded by notable power plants, including the Columbia (WI) plant, which boasts a substantial 1,112 MW capacity, and the RockGen Energy Center, generating 561 MW. Other nearby facilities include Blount Street (100 MW) and Fitchburg (57.6 MW), along with several smaller diesel generators. This proximity to larger plants highlights the competitive nature of energy generation in the region, where average gas plant capacities hover around 735 MW, indicating that West Campus situates itself below this benchmark. Nevertheless, its cogeneration capabilities enhance energy efficiency, playing an important role in supporting local demand. As the U.S. focuses on energy transition and sustainability, West Campus Cogeneration Facility exemplifies how gas and oil can complement renewable sources. Its operational significance lies in its ability to provide reliable energy while contributing to a more balanced energy portfolio. Looking forward, this facility is essential for meeting both current energy needs and future sustainability goals in the region.
22 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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