Overview
Labadie is a 2,389.4 MW coal power plant in Missouri, United States, operated by Union Electric Co. It is one of the largest coal-fired facilities in the country, playing a key role in regional electricity supply.
Labadie is a coal-fired power plant located in Missouri, United States, with a nameplate capacity of 2,389.4 MW. Owned and operated by Union Electric Co (Ameren Missouri), the facility is one of the largest coal power plants in the nation and serves as a cornerstone of the regional power grid. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, including the Clean Air Act, the Acid Rain Program, and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). As a large 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 units, though environmental controls such as scrubbers and selective catalytic reduction may be in place to meet current standards. Labadie's environmental significance stems from its substantial coal consumption and associated CO2, SO2, and NOx emissions. Its location in a populated area of Missouri means that air quality impacts are closely monitored. The plant provides baseload power to millions of customers, but its age and fuel type place it under increasing regulatory and economic pressure as the energy sector transitions toward cleaner sources.
Environmental context
As a large coal-fired power plant, Labadie has a significant environmental footprint, including high CO2 emissions and contributions to regional SO2 and NOx levels. Its proximity to populated areas in Missouri necessitates compliance with EPA air quality standards. The plant's age and technology may result in higher emission rates compared to modern natural gas or renewable facilities. Water usage for cooling and ash disposal are additional environmental considerations.
Frequently asked questions
Labadie is located in Missouri, United States, near the Missouri River. Its coordinates are 38.5622° N, -90.8377° W.
Labadie has a nameplate capacity of 2,389.4 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest coal-fired power plants in the United States.
The plant is owned and operated by Union Electric Co, a subsidiary of Ameren Missouri, a major utility serving the region.
Coal power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act, including the Acid Rain Program and CSAPR, which limit SO2, NOx, and other emissions. They also face CO2 regulations under the Clean Power Plan and state-level requirements.
As a large coal plant, Labadie emits significant CO2, SO2, and NOx, contributing to climate change and local air pollution. It also uses large amounts of water for cooling and generates coal ash, which requires careful management.