Overview
Aguirre is a 42 MW gas power plant located in Puerto Rico, United States. It operates within the US regulatory framework under EPA emissions standards.
Aguirre is a gas-fired power generation facility located in Puerto Rico, a territory of the United States. With a capacity of 42 MW, it is a relatively small-scale plant within the US power generation sector, contributing to the local grid's electricity supply. The plant operates under the jurisdiction of US environmental regulations, including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and its associated programs such as the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and the Acid Rain Program. As a gas-fired facility, it typically produces lower emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter compared to coal plants, but still must comply with emission limits for nitrogen oxides (NOx) and other pollutants. Aguirre plays a role in meeting the energy needs of Puerto Rico, an island with a diverse energy mix. Its operational status as an active plant underscores its contribution to local grid stability and power supply, particularly in a region prone to natural disasters that can disrupt infrastructure.
Environmental context
The plant's gas fuel type results in lower CO2 emissions per MWh compared to coal or oil, but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in Puerto Rico, a tropical island, means it operates in a region vulnerable to climate change impacts such as hurricanes. The plant's moderate capacity and gas technology align with modern environmental standards, though proximity to populated areas may require careful management of local air quality.
Frequently asked questions
Aguirre is located in Puerto Rico, a territory of the United States, at coordinates 17.9533° N, -66.2312° W.
Aguirre is a gas power plant, meaning it primarily uses natural gas as fuel for electricity generation.
The Aguirre plant has a capacity of 42 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale facility in the US power generation sector.
Gas power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act, including NAAQS for criteria pollutants, the Acid Rain Program for SO2 and NOx, and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR) for interstate emissions.
As an operational gas plant, Aguirre provides 42 MW of electricity to Puerto Rico's grid, supporting local energy needs and grid stability.