Overview
Cambridge is a 4 MW oil-fired diesel power plant in Cambridge, Nebraska, United States. Operated by the City of Cambridge, it supports local grid reliability.
Cambridge is a diesel power plant located in Cambridge, Nebraska, United States. With a capacity of 4 MW, it is a small-scale facility within the US power generation sector, primarily serving the local community. The plant operates on oil as its primary fuel, a common choice for peaking or backup power in rural areas. As a diesel plant, it falls under US EPA regulations including the Clean Air Act, which sets emission standards for criteria pollutants like SOx and NOx. The facility's small capacity and operational status suggest it plays a role in meeting peak demand or providing emergency power. Operated by the City of Cambridge, this plant contributes to the energy resilience of the region. Its location in Nebraska, a state with a mix of renewable and fossil fuel generation, highlights the continued reliance on dispatchable power sources for grid stability. The plant's environmental impact is limited by its small size and intermittent operation.
Environmental context
The plant's oil combustion emits CO2, SOx, and NOx, contributing to local air quality concerns. Its location in a rural area reduces population exposure, but the use of oil as fuel results in higher emissions per MWh compared to natural gas. The small capacity (4 MW) limits overall environmental footprint, but the plant's age and technology (diesel engine) may lack modern emission controls.
Frequently asked questions
The Cambridge power plant is located in Cambridge, Nebraska, United States, at coordinates 40.286200, -100.176800.
The Cambridge diesel power plant has a capacity of 4 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale facility.
The Cambridge power plant is operated by the City of Cambridge.
Diesel power plants in the United States are subject to the Clean Air Act, including National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and emission limits for pollutants like SOx and NOx. Facilities may also need to comply with state-level regulations.
Small diesel plants like Cambridge often serve as peaking units or backup power sources, providing reliability during high demand or emergencies. They are typically less efficient than larger combined-cycle plants but offer quick start-up and flexibility.