Cardinal Coal Power Plant | Ohio, United States | 1,880.4 MW

Cardinal is a coal power plant located in Ohio, United States, with a capacity of 1,880.4 MW. It is operated by Cardinal Operating Company and is classified as a large-scale coal-fired power generation facility. The plant plays a key role in the regional power grid, providing baseload electricity to the surrounding area. 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 National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), the Acid Rain Program, and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). As a coal-fired facility, it is subject to stringent emission limits for sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. The plant's technology is typical of older coal plants, but it may have undergone upgrades to meet modern standards. Cardinal's environmental impact is influenced by its coal fuel source, which results in higher CO2 emissions compared to natural gas or renewable sources. Its proximity to populated areas and the Ohio River Valley may affect local air quality. The plant contributes to grid reliability and supports local employment, but its long-term operation faces challenges from evolving environmental regulations and the transition to cleaner energy sources.

Cardinal's coal-fired operation results in significant CO2, SO2, and NOx emissions, contributing to regional air quality concerns and greenhouse gas levels. Located in the Ohio River Valley, the plant may affect local communities through particulate matter and acid rain precursors. Its large capacity and coal fuel source place it under strict EPA regulations, including the Acid Rain Program and CSAPR, which aim to reduce cross-state pollution.