Santurce Grupo 4 Gas Power Plant, Spain - Capacity and Operational Details

Santurce Grupo 4 is a gas-fired power plant located in Spain, with a capacity of 396.4 MW. The facility is owned and operated by Hidroelectrica Iberica S.L. and is currently operational. As a gas power plant, it contributes to Spain's energy mix, which relies on natural gas for flexible and relatively lower-emission electricity generation compared to coal. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the European Union's Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU), which sets emission limits for SOx, NOx, and particulates based on Best Available Techniques (BAT). Spain's national energy policies also promote the use of natural gas as a transition fuel towards renewable energy targets. The plant's capacity places it in the medium-to-large scale for gas power plants in the region. Santurce Grupo 4 supports grid stability and meets electricity demand in the Basque Country region. Its gas-fired technology allows for rapid ramping, complementing intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar. The facility's environmental performance is subject to continuous monitoring under EU and national regulations, ensuring compliance with emission standards.

The plant uses natural gas, which produces lower CO2 emissions per MWh compared to coal or oil, but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location near the coast and urban areas may influence local air quality, though modern gas plants typically have advanced emission controls. The facility's age and technology (likely combined cycle) affect its efficiency and environmental footprint. Regulatory oversight under the EU Industrial Emissions Directive ensures adherence to strict emission limits.