Overview
Newton is a 617.4 MW coal power plant in Illinois, United States, operated by Illinois Power Generating Co. It provides baseload power to the regional grid.
Newton is a coal-fired power plant located in Illinois, United States, with a capacity of 617.4 MW. It is owned and operated by Illinois Power Generating Co and is currently operational. The plant serves as a significant source of baseload electricity for the region. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency, including the Clean Air Act, National Ambient Air Quality Standards, and the Acid Rain Program. As a coal plant, it is subject to emissions limits for sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. The plant's technology is typical of coal-fired generation in the US, with environmental controls likely including scrubbers and selective catalytic reduction. Newton plays a key role in the local energy mix, providing reliable power to homes and industries in central Illinois. Its location near the Wabash River supports cooling water access. The plant's capacity places it in the medium-to-large scale for coal plants in the US, contributing to grid stability and economic activity in the area.
Environmental context
The plant's coal fuel source results in significant CO2 emissions, as well as SOx and NOx, which are regulated under the Clean Air Act. Its location in a rural area of Illinois reduces direct population exposure, but regional air quality impacts are monitored. The plant's age and technology (likely subcritical) influence its efficiency and emission profile. Nearby water bodies may be affected by thermal discharge and runoff.
Frequently asked questions
The Newton coal power plant is located in Illinois, United States, near the Wabash River.
The Newton power plant has a capacity of 617.4 megawatts, making it a medium-to-large coal-fired facility.
The Newton power plant is owned and operated by Illinois Power Generating Co.
Coal power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act, including NAAQS, the Acid Rain Program, and CSAPR, which limit emissions of SO2, NOx, and other pollutants.
Coal power plants like Newton typically use pulverized coal combustion with subcritical or supercritical steam cycles, and may employ emission control technologies such as scrubbers and electrostatic precipitators.