Marshall (MN) Diesel Power Plant - Marshall, Minnesota, USA

Marshall (MN) is a diesel power plant located in Marshall, Minnesota, United States. With a capacity of 18 MW, it is a small-scale facility within the U.S. power generation sector, serving the local community's electricity needs. The plant is owned and operated by the City of Marshall, ensuring municipal control over its operations. The plant uses oil as its primary fuel, a common choice for diesel plants that offer flexibility and quick start-up capabilities. As a diesel facility, it operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and associated standards such as the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and the Acid Rain Program. These regulations govern emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, ensuring environmental compliance. Marshall (MN) plays a role in the regional power grid, providing peaking or backup power due to its diesel technology. Its location in southwestern Minnesota places it within an area with a mix of agricultural and industrial activities. The plant's relatively small capacity and municipal ownership highlight its focus on local energy reliability rather than large-scale generation.

The plant's use of oil as fuel results in higher CO2 emissions per MWh compared to natural gas or renewable sources, and it also produces SO2 and NOx emissions subject to EPA regulations. Its location in a small city like Marshall means it is not in a densely populated area, reducing direct exposure risks. However, diesel plants typically have lower efficiency and higher emissions than combined-cycle gas turbines, making them less environmentally favorable. Its small capacity suggests it may be an older unit.