Bushnell Diesel Power Plant | Bushnell, Illinois, USA

Bushnell is a diesel power plant located in Bushnell, Illinois, United States. With a capacity of 10.8 MW, it is a small-scale facility within the US power generation sector, owned and operated by the City of Bushnell. The plant is currently operational and contributes to the local energy supply. The plant uses oil as its primary fuel, a common choice for smaller diesel generators. In the United States, such facilities are subject to environmental regulations under the Clean Air Act, including emissions standards for sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. Diesel plants typically operate with internal combustion engines, which can be less efficient than combined-cycle gas turbines but offer flexibility for peaking or backup power. As a municipally owned facility, Bushnell plays a role in ensuring reliable electricity for the community. Its relatively small capacity suggests it may serve as a peaking plant or emergency backup, complementing larger baseload sources. The plant's location in rural Illinois places it in an area with moderate population density, and its emissions profile is typical for oil-fired generation.

The Bushnell plant uses oil as fuel, which results in higher CO2 emissions per MWh compared to natural gas, along with SO2 and NOx emissions that are regulated under the US Clean Air Act. Its location in a small city in Illinois means it is not in a densely populated area, reducing direct exposure risks. However, as an older diesel facility, it may have lower efficiency and higher emissions than modern alternatives.