Overview
Destec - Kingston is a 140 MW gas power plant in Ontario, Canada, operated by Northland Power. It supplies electricity to the provincial grid.
Destec - Kingston is a natural gas-fired power generation facility located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. With a capacity of 140 megawatts, it operates as a medium-scale plant within the Canadian power sector, contributing to the province's electricity supply. The facility is owned and operated by Northland Power, a Canadian independent power producer. The plant utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel, a common choice for modern power generation due to its lower emissions compared to coal. Gas plants in this capacity range often employ combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) technology for higher efficiency. The facility operates under Canada's federal and provincial environmental regulations, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and Ontario's emissions standards. Destec - Kingston plays a role in supporting grid reliability in eastern Ontario, particularly during peak demand periods. Its location near the St. Lawrence River provides access to cooling water and fuel transport infrastructure. The plant's operation aligns with Canada's transition toward lower-carbon energy sources, as natural gas serves as a bridge fuel in the country's energy mix.
Environmental context
The plant's use of natural gas results in lower CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions per MWh compared to coal-fired generation, but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in Kingston, a city with a population of approximately 125,000, means it is in proximity to populated areas, requiring adherence to local air quality standards. The facility's age and technology (likely CCGT) influence its environmental footprint, with modern gas plants achieving higher efficiency and lower emissions.
Frequently asked questions
Destec - Kingston is located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, near the St. Lawrence River.
The plant has a capacity of 140 megawatts, making it a medium-scale gas power plant.
The facility is owned and operated by Northland Power, a Canadian independent power producer.
Gas power plants in Canada must comply with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and provincial emissions standards, including limits on SOx, NOx, and greenhouse gases.
The plant provides electricity to Ontario's grid, supporting reliability during peak demand and complementing renewable energy sources.