Overview
Low Moor is an 82.8 MW diesel power plant in Virginia, USA, operated by Virginia Electric & Power Co. It uses oil as its primary fuel and is currently operational.
Low Moor is a diesel power plant located in Virginia, United States, with a capacity of 82.8 MW. The facility is owned and operated by Virginia Electric & Power Co and is currently in operational status. As a diesel-fired plant, it contributes to the regional power grid, serving local electricity demand. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency, including the Clean Air Act and associated programs such as the Acid Rain Program and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule. These regulations set emission limits for sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants. Diesel plants typically have higher CO2 and particulate emissions compared to natural gas combined-cycle plants, and their environmental impact is managed through permits and compliance requirements. Low Moor plays a role in meeting peak electricity demand or providing backup power, given the flexibility of diesel generation. Its location in Virginia places it within a state with a diverse energy mix, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewables. The plant's operations are subject to state and federal environmental oversight, ensuring adherence to air quality standards.
Environmental context
The plant's use of oil as a primary fuel results in higher CO2 emissions per MWh compared to natural gas or renewable sources. Its location in Virginia, a state with varying air quality concerns, means emissions of SOx and NOx are regulated under the Clean Air Act. The 82.8 MW capacity places it in the small-to-medium scale for diesel plants, and its operational status suggests ongoing compliance with environmental permits.
Frequently asked questions
Low Moor is located in Virginia, United States, at coordinates 37.777000, -79.892000.
Low Moor has a capacity of 82.8 megawatts (MW) and uses oil as its primary fuel.
Low Moor is owned and operated by Virginia Electric & Power Co.
Diesel power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act, including emission limits for SOx, NOx, and particulate matter under programs like the Acid Rain Program and CSAPR.
As a diesel plant, Low Moor likely serves peak demand or provides backup power, offering flexibility to the grid in Virginia.