Overview
International Paper Pine Hill Mill is a 77.4 MW biomass power plant in Alabama, United States, owned by International Paper Co. It converts waste into electricity, supporting the local grid.
International Paper Pine Hill Mill is a biomass power plant located in Alabama, United States, with a capacity of 77.4 MW. Owned by International Paper Co., the facility is operational and utilizes waste as its primary fuel source. This scale places it as a medium-sized biomass plant within the U.S. power generation sector. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and associated standards such as the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). As a biomass facility, it may benefit from renewable energy incentives and is subject to emissions guidelines for biomass combustion. The technology employed is typical for biomass plants, involving combustion of waste materials to generate steam and drive turbines. Environmentally, the plant contributes to waste reduction by converting industrial byproducts into energy, reducing landfill use. Its location in Alabama, a state with a mix of fossil fuel and renewable generation, supports grid diversification. The facility's role in the local energy mix helps meet renewable portfolio standards and provides a stable power source for the region.
Environmental context
The plant's use of waste as fuel reduces methane emissions from landfills and displaces fossil fuel-based generation, lowering overall CO2 emissions. However, biomass combustion releases particulate matter and other pollutants, requiring compliance with EPA emissions limits. Its location in a rural area minimizes direct population exposure, but regional air quality impacts are managed under the CAA.
Frequently asked questions
International Paper Pine Hill Mill is located in Alabama, United States, at coordinates 31.969800, -87.480600.
It is a biomass power plant that uses waste as fuel to generate 77.4 MW of electricity.
The plant is owned by International Paper Co., a major pulp and paper company.
The plant must comply with the U.S. Clean Air Act, including NAAQS and emissions guidelines for biomass combustion, as enforced by the EPA.
Biomass power reduces landfill waste and methane emissions, and displaces fossil fuel use, contributing to lower net carbon emissions when sustainably sourced.