Overview
Caucaia is a 14.76 MW diesel power plant in Brazil, operating on oil. It serves the local grid in the state of Ceará, contributing to regional power generation.
Caucaia is a diesel power plant located in the state of Ceará, Brazil, with a capacity of 14.76 MW. It operates on oil as its primary fuel and is currently in operational status. The plant plays a role in meeting local electricity demand in the northeastern region of Brazil. Brazil's power generation sector is regulated by national standards, including emission limits for pollutants such as SOx and NOx. Diesel plants like Caucaia are typically used for peaking or backup power due to their flexibility, though they have higher carbon intensity compared to natural gas or renewable sources. The plant's capacity places it in the small-scale category for power generation. As a diesel-fired facility, Caucaia contributes to grid stability but also has a notable environmental footprint due to CO2 and particulate emissions. Its location in a populated area near Fortaleza underscores the importance of balancing energy needs with air quality considerations. The plant supports local energy security and industrial activity.
Environmental context
The plant's use of oil as fuel results in higher CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions per MWh compared to natural gas or renewables. Its location in the coastal region of Ceará, near urban areas, raises considerations for local air quality. The relatively small capacity (14.76 MW) limits its overall environmental impact, but the plant's age and technology (likely internal combustion engines) may affect efficiency and emission control.
Frequently asked questions
The Caucaia power plant is located in the state of Ceará, Brazil, near the city of Fortaleza. Its coordinates are approximately 3.7327° S, 38.6434° W.
The Caucaia diesel power plant has a capacity of 14.76 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale power generation facility.
The Caucaia power plant uses oil as its primary fuel, specifically diesel, which is typical for peaking and backup power plants in Brazil.
Diesel power plants in Brazil must comply with national emission standards set by CONAMA (National Environment Council), including limits for particulate matter, SOx, and NOx. Plants may also need environmental licenses from state agencies.
As a diesel plant, Caucaia provides flexible generation that can be dispatched quickly to meet peak demand or backup during shortages, supporting grid stability in the northeastern region.