Overview
Alsey is a 173 MW gas-fired power plant in Illinois, United States, operated by Prairie Power Inc. It provides electricity to the regional grid as an operational facility.
Alsey is a gas-fired power plant located in Illinois, United States, with a capacity of 173 megawatts (MW). It is owned and operated by Prairie Power Inc. and is currently operational, contributing to the region's electricity supply. The plant falls within the medium-scale range for gas power generation in the US. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and associated programs such as the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and the Acid Rain Program. Gas-fired plants like Alsey typically use combined cycle or simple cycle technology, offering lower emissions compared to coal-fired units. The plant's capacity and fuel type align with common practices in the US power sector. Alsey plays a role in meeting local energy demand and supporting grid reliability. As a gas plant, it benefits from flexible operation, allowing it to respond to fluctuations in electricity demand. The facility's location in Illinois places it within a state with a diverse energy mix, including nuclear, coal, and renewables. Its operational status ensures continued contribution to the regional power supply.
Environmental context
Gas-fired power plants like Alsey produce lower CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions per MWh compared to coal plants, but still contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The plant's location in a rural area of Illinois may reduce direct exposure to densely populated zones, though air quality impacts are regulated under the EPA's NAAQS. The facility's age and specific technology (simple cycle vs. Typical gas plants have a moderate environmental footprint relative to other fossil fuels.
Frequently asked questions
The Alsey power plant is located in Illinois, United States, at coordinates 39.5698 N, -90.4360 W.
The Alsey gas power plant has a capacity of 173 megawatts (MW).
The Alsey power plant is owned by Prairie Power Inc.
Gas power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act, including NAAQS for air pollutants, and may be subject to the Acid Rain Program and CSAPR for emissions of SO2 and NOx.
With a capacity of 173 MW, Alsey is a medium-sized gas plant in Illinois. The state has a mix of larger combined-cycle plants and smaller peaking units, and Alsey contributes to the regional grid's flexibility.