Brandon Shores Coal Power Plant | Maryland, USA | 1,370 MW

Brandon Shores is a coal-fired power plant located in Maryland, United States, with a capacity of 1,370.2 MW, placing it among the larger coal plants in the country. The facility is owned by Brandon Shores LLC and is currently operational, serving as a significant contributor to the regional power supply. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and its associated programs such as the Acid Rain Program and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). These regulations govern emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and other pollutants. As a coal-fired plant, Brandon Shores utilizes conventional pulverized coal combustion technology, typical for plants of its era and scale. Brandon Shores plays a crucial role in meeting the electricity demands of the Mid-Atlantic region. Its large capacity supports grid stability and provides baseload power. The plant's environmental footprint is managed through compliance with federal emission standards, and its operation is integral to the local energy mix, balancing with other sources like natural gas and renewables.

As a coal-fired power plant, Brandon Shores has a significant environmental footprint, primarily due to CO2 emissions and air pollutants such as SO2, NOx, and particulate matter. Its location in Maryland, near populated areas, necessitates strict adherence to EPA regulations under the Clean Air Act. The plant's age and technology (subcritical or supercritical) influence its efficiency and emission rates. Proximity to the Chesapeake Bay watershed also raises considerations for water use and ash disposal.