Overview
Darrington is a 4.5 MW biomass power plant in Washington, USA, owned by Hampton Lumber Mills - Washington Inc. It converts waste wood into electricity, supporting local renewable energy generation.
Darrington is a biomass power plant located in Darrington, Washington, United States. With a capacity of 4.5 MW, it is a small-scale facility that utilizes waste wood as fuel to generate electricity. The plant is owned by Hampton Lumber Mills - Washington Inc and is currently operational. As a biomass facility, Darrington operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and associated standards for emissions of particulate matter, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). Biomass power plants in the US are subject to New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) and may require permits under state implementation plans. The technology typically involves combustion of biomass in a boiler to produce steam that drives a turbine generator. The plant contributes to the local energy grid by providing renewable power from waste wood, a byproduct of the timber industry in the region. Its small capacity means it serves a niche role, potentially supplying electricity to nearby communities or industrial facilities. The use of waste wood helps reduce landfill disposal and provides a sustainable energy source, aligning with broader environmental goals for renewable energy deployment.
Environmental context
The plant's use of waste wood as fuel reduces methane emissions from decomposition and displaces fossil fuel-based electricity. However, biomass combustion releases CO2, particulate matter, and other pollutants. Located in a forested region of Washington, the plant's emissions are subject to state and federal air quality regulations. Its small scale limits local air quality impacts, but proximity to populated areas may require monitoring for compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
Frequently asked questions
The Darrington biomass power plant is located in Darrington, Washington, United States.
The Darrington power plant uses waste wood as its primary fuel source, making it a biomass facility.
The Darrington biomass plant has a capacity of 4.5 megawatts (MW), generating enough electricity to power several hundred homes.
Biomass power plants in the US are regulated under the Clean Air Act (CAA), including New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for emissions of particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide. State-level permits may also be required.
The Darrington biomass power plant is owned by Hampton Lumber Mills - Washington Inc, a company involved in timber and wood products.