Overview
Hibbing is a 35.9 MW coal power plant in Minnesota, operated by Hibbing Public Utilities Commission. It serves the local community with baseload power generation.
Hibbing is a coal-fired power plant located in Hibbing, Minnesota, United States. With a capacity of 35.9 MW, it is a small-scale facility within the U.S. coal power sector, primarily serving the local grid. The plant is owned and operated by Hibbing Public Utilities Commission, a municipal utility. 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). As a coal-fired plant, it is subject to emission limits for sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. The technology is likely subcritical, typical for smaller coal plants of this vintage. Hibbing plays a role in providing reliable electricity to the Hibbing area and supports local energy independence. Its relatively small capacity means it has a lower environmental footprint compared to larger coal plants, but it still contributes to regional emissions. The plant's operational status ensures continued service to the community.
Environmental context
The plant's coal fuel source results in CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions, which are regulated under the EPA's CAA programs. Its location in a smaller urban area reduces direct population exposure, but regional air quality impacts remain. The plant's age and subcritical technology likely result in lower efficiency and higher emissions per MWh compared to modern supercritical or CCGT plants.
Frequently asked questions
The Hibbing coal power plant is located in Hibbing, Minnesota, United States.
The Hibbing power plant has a capacity of 35.9 megawatts (MW).
The Hibbing power plant is operated by Hibbing Public Utilities Commission.
Coal power plants in the United States are regulated under the Clean Air Act, including the Acid Rain Program and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR), which set limits on SO2, NOx, and other emissions.
Small coal power plants like Hibbing often use subcritical boiler technology, which is less efficient than supercritical or ultra-supercritical designs used in larger plants.