Overview
Ermine is a 92 MW gas power plant in Canada, operated by Macquarie Power & Infrastructure Income Fund. It is an operational facility contributing to the country's natural gas-fired power generation capacity.
Ermine is a natural gas-fired power plant located in Canada, with a capacity of 92 megawatts. The facility is owned by Macquarie Power & Infrastructure Income Fund and is currently operational. As a gas power plant, it forms part of Canada's diverse electricity generation mix, which includes hydro, nuclear, and renewable sources. The plant operates under Canada's federal and provincial environmental regulations, which include emission standards for nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and greenhouse gases. Natural gas plants like Ermine typically use combined cycle or simple cycle technology, with efficiency and emissions varying by design. The 92 MW capacity places it in the small-to-medium scale range for gas power plants in Canada. Ermine contributes to the local grid by providing flexible generation that can complement intermittent renewable sources. Its operation supports energy reliability in the region, while its natural gas fuel source results in lower carbon emissions compared to coal-fired plants. The facility's role in the energy transition highlights the balance between fossil fuel use and cleaner alternatives.
Environmental context
Natural gas power plants like Ermine produce lower CO2 emissions per megawatt-hour than coal plants but still contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The facility's location in Canada subjects it to federal carbon pricing and provincial emission regulations. Proximity to populated areas and local air quality standards influence operational constraints. The plant's age and technology (subcritical vs. combined cycle) affect its efficiency and environmental footprint.
Frequently asked questions
The Ermine gas power plant is located in Canada, with coordinates approximately 51.8730° N, -109.0399° W.
Ermine has a capacity of 92 megawatts, making it a small-to-medium scale gas power plant.
The Ermine power plant is owned by Macquarie Power & Infrastructure Income Fund.
Gas power plants in Canada must comply with federal and provincial emission standards, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and carbon pricing mechanisms. Regulations target NOx, SO2, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Ermine provides flexible natural gas-fired generation that supports grid reliability and can complement renewable energy sources like wind and solar.