Overview
Clearwater Paper IPP Lewiston is a 113.8 MW biomass power plant in Lewiston, Idaho, owned by Clearwater Paper Corporation. It converts biomass into electricity, supporting regional grid stability.
Clearwater Paper IPP Lewiston is a biomass power plant located in Lewiston, Idaho, United States. With a capacity of 113.8 MW, it operates as an independent power producer, utilizing biomass as its primary fuel source. The facility is owned by Clearwater Paper Corporation and is currently operational, contributing to the local energy mix. The plant's technology is typical for biomass power generation, involving combustion of organic materials to produce steam that drives turbines. In the United States, biomass plants like this one are subject to environmental regulations under the Clean Air Act, including emissions standards for particulate matter, SOx, and NOx. The facility's capacity places it in the medium-scale range for biomass power plants in the country. As a biomass facility, Clearwater Paper IPP Lewiston plays a role in utilizing wood waste and other organic materials from the region's forestry and paper industries. This helps reduce landfill waste and provides a renewable energy source. The plant's location in the Pacific Northwest benefits from a robust forestry sector, ensuring a steady fuel supply while supporting local economic activity.
Environmental context
Biomass power generation involves combustion of organic materials, which releases CO2, but is considered carbon-neutral if sourced sustainably. The plant's emissions of SOx, NOx, and particulate matter are regulated under the Clean Air Act. Proximity to populated areas may influence local air quality, though modern control technologies mitigate impacts. The facility's reliance on regional forestry residues supports waste reduction and renewable energy goals.
Frequently asked questions
Clearwater Paper IPP Lewiston is located in Lewiston, Idaho, United States, at coordinates 46.4231 N, -116.9764 W.
It is a biomass power plant that generates electricity by burning organic materials such as wood waste.
The plant is owned by Clearwater Paper Corporation, a company involved in paper and packaging products.
Biomass power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act, which sets emission limits for pollutants like SOx, NOx, and particulate matter. State-level regulations may also apply.
Biomass power is considered renewable and carbon-neutral if fuel is sourced sustainably. However, combustion produces air pollutants that require control technologies. The use of waste wood reduces landfill burden.