Overview
NCAH Central Utility Plant is a 14.9 MW diesel power plant in the United States, owned by the National Centers for Animal Health. It operates as a backup or peaking facility for critical infrastructure.
NCAH Central Utility Plant is a diesel-fired power generation facility located in the United States, with coordinates 42.0461° N, -93.5794° W. Owned by the National Centers for Animal Health, the plant has a capacity of 14.9 MW and is currently operational. As a diesel power plant, it serves as a reliable source of electricity for essential operations, likely providing backup or peak-load support. The plant 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. Diesel plants are subject to emissions limits for sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. The relatively small capacity of 14.9 MW places it in the small-scale category for power generation, typical for emergency or standby applications. Environmentally, the use of diesel fuel results in higher CO2 emissions per MWh compared to natural gas, and the plant's location near agricultural or rural areas may reduce direct population exposure. However, its role in supporting the National Centers for Animal Health underscores its importance for biosecurity and research continuity. The facility's age and technology specifics are not detailed, but its small scale suggests it may use reciprocating engine technology common in diesel plants.
Environmental context
The NCAH Central Utility Plant, fueled by oil (diesel), contributes to local emissions of CO2, SOx, NOx, and particulate matter. Its location in a rural area of Iowa likely minimizes direct impact on densely populated zones, but the plant's operation may affect local air quality during periods of use. As a small-scale facility (14.9 MW), its overall environmental footprint is moderate, but diesel combustion is less efficient than natural gas and produces higher greenhouse gas emissions per unit of electricity.
Frequently asked questions
NCAH Central Utility Plant is located in the United States at coordinates 42.0461° N, -93.5794° W, likely in Iowa near the National Centers for Animal Health.
It is a diesel power plant with a capacity of 14.9 MW, typically used for backup or peak-load power generation.
The plant is owned by the National Centers for Animal Health, a U.S. federal agency focused on animal health research and diagnostics.
Diesel power plants in the U.S. must comply with the Clean Air Act, including NAAQS for criteria pollutants, the Acid Rain Program for SO2, and CSAPR for NOx. Emissions limits for diesel engines are set under 40 CFR Part 60.
Small diesel plants often serve as emergency backup or peaking units, providing reliable power during grid outages or high demand periods, especially for critical facilities like research centers.