Buxton Diesel Power Plant: 15 MW Oil-Fired Facility in North Carolina

Buxton is a diesel power plant located in North Carolina, United States, with an operational status. The facility is owned by North Carolina El Member Corp and has a capacity of 15 MW, placing it in the small-scale category for power generation. It uses oil as its primary fuel, typical for diesel plants that serve as peaking or backup power sources. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and its National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). As a diesel facility, it is subject to emissions standards for sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. The technology employed is internal combustion engines, which are common for smaller-scale diesel plants. Buxton contributes to grid reliability in the region, particularly during peak demand periods or emergencies. Its location in coastal North Carolina may support resilience against weather-related outages. The plant's relatively small capacity and oil fuel source mean it has a moderate environmental footprint compared to larger coal or gas plants.

The plant's use of oil as fuel results in CO2, SO2, and NOx emissions, though its small 15 MW capacity limits overall impact. Located in coastal North Carolina, the facility is near populated areas and sensitive ecosystems. Diesel engines can produce particulate matter and noise, but modern controls mitigate these effects. Typical diesel plants have lower efficiency than combined-cycle gas turbines.