Overview
Cardinal is a 156.3 MW gas power plant in Ontario, Canada, operated by Cardinal Power LP. It supplies electricity to the provincial grid under Canada's clean energy regulations.
Cardinal is a natural gas-fired power plant located in Ontario, Canada, with a capacity of 156.3 MW. Operated by Cardinal Power LP, the facility plays a role in meeting regional electricity demand. As a gas plant, it contributes to Canada's diverse energy mix, which includes hydro, nuclear, and renewables. The plant operates under Canada's federal and provincial environmental regulations, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and Ontario's emissions standards. Natural gas plants like Cardinal typically use combined cycle or simple cycle technology, offering flexibility and lower emissions compared to coal. The 156.3 MW capacity places it in the medium-scale range for gas plants in Canada. Cardinal's operational status and location in Ontario support grid reliability and energy transition goals. The facility's gas-fired generation provides dispatchable power that complements intermittent renewables. Its proximity to local communities underscores the importance of emissions management and compliance with air quality standards.
Environmental context
The plant's gas fuel type results in lower CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions compared to coal, but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in Ontario, a province with stringent emissions regulations, requires adherence to carbon pricing and performance standards. The 156.3 MW capacity indicates a moderate environmental footprint, with potential impacts on local air quality and water use for cooling.
Frequently asked questions
The Cardinal gas power plant is located in Ontario, Canada, at coordinates 44.7846° N, -75.3779° W.
Cardinal is a natural gas-fired power plant, using gas as its primary fuel for electricity generation.
The Cardinal plant has a capacity of 156.3 megawatts (MW), placing it in the medium-scale range for gas plants in Canada.
The Cardinal power plant is operated by Cardinal Power LP, a private entity involved in electricity generation in Ontario.
Gas power plants in Canada must comply with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, provincial emissions standards, and carbon pricing mechanisms. Ontario also has specific air quality and performance standards for such facilities.