Overview
New River Clean Energy is a 3.2 MW biomass power plant in West Virginia, United States, owned by Cox Enterprises. It converts waste into electricity, contributing to the local energy grid.
New River Clean Energy is a biomass power plant located in West Virginia, United States, with an operational capacity of 3.2 MW. Owned by Cox Enterprises, the facility is operational and utilizes waste as its primary fuel source. As a small-scale biomass plant, it plays a role in the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and applicable emission standards for biomass facilities. Biomass power plants in the US are subject to New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) and may require state-level permits. The technology typically involves combustion or gasification of organic waste materials to generate electricity. New River Clean Energy contributes to waste-to-energy conversion, reducing landfill use and providing a renewable energy source. Its location in West Virginia supports local energy diversity and grid stability. The facility's small capacity indicates a community-scale operation, serving nearby residential or industrial users.
Environmental context
The plant's use of waste as fuel reduces methane emissions from landfills and provides a renewable energy source. Biomass combustion emits CO2, but it is considered carbon-neutral if the feedstock is sustainably sourced. Proximity to populated areas may require air quality monitoring for particulate matter and other pollutants. The facility's small capacity minimizes its overall environmental footprint compared to larger fossil fuel plants.
Frequently asked questions
New River Clean Energy is located in West Virginia, United States, with coordinates approximately 37.8158 N, -81.1619 W.
New River Clean Energy uses waste as its primary fuel source, converting it into electricity through biomass combustion.
New River Clean Energy is owned by Cox Enterprises, a private company based in the United States.
Biomass power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act, including New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for emissions of particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. State-level permits may also be required.
Biomass power generation can reduce landfill waste and methane emissions, but combustion releases CO2 and other pollutants. Sustainable sourcing of feedstock is key to its carbon-neutral potential.