Overview
Middletown is a 786.4 MW oil-fired diesel power plant in Middletown, Connecticut, USA. Operated by Middletown Power LLC, it serves the regional grid with dispatchable generation capacity.
Middletown is an operational diesel power plant located in Middletown, Connecticut, United States. With a capacity of 786.4 MW, it is a large-scale facility within the oil-fired generation sector, providing flexible power to meet peak demand and grid stability needs. 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 well as the Acid Rain Program and Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). As an oil-fired facility, it is subject to emissions limits for SOx, NOx, and particulate matter, and may utilize modern combustion controls to meet these standards. Middletown plays a key role in the regional power grid, offering rapid startup and load-following capabilities typical of diesel plants. Its location in Connecticut supports the state's energy mix, complementing natural gas and renewable sources. The facility's operational status and capacity contribute to local energy security and economic activity.
Environmental context
The plant's oil-fired operation results in higher CO2 emissions per MWh compared to natural gas, and significant SOx and NOx emissions that are regulated under the EPA's Acid Rain Program and CSAPR. Its location in a populated area of Connecticut may require additional controls to meet local air quality standards. The facility's age and technology level influence its environmental footprint, with potential for efficiency improvements.
Frequently asked questions
The Middletown power plant is located in Middletown, Connecticut, United States, at coordinates 41.554900, -72.579100.
The Middletown plant is an oil-fired diesel power plant, using oil as its primary fuel to generate electricity.
The Middletown power plant has a capacity of 786.4 megawatts (MW), making it a large-scale facility in the oil-fired generation sector.
Oil-fired power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act, including NAAQS for criteria pollutants, the Acid Rain Program for SO2, and CSAPR for NOx and SO2 transport. They may also need state-level permits.
The Middletown power plant is owned by Middletown Power LLC.