Overview
AOC Capitol Power Plant is a 7.5 MW gas-fired power plant in Washington, D.C., United States. It provides electricity and steam to the U.S. Capitol complex.
The AOC Capitol Power Plant is a gas-fired power generation facility located in Washington, D.C., United States. With a capacity of 7.5 MW, it is a small-scale plant that serves the energy needs of the U.S. Capitol complex. The plant is operated by the Architect of the Capitol and is currently operational. The plant uses natural gas as its primary fuel, a cleaner-burning fossil fuel compared to coal or oil. As a gas-fired plant, it benefits from lower emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act and its associated standards such as the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and the Acid Rain Program. The AOC Capitol Power Plant plays a critical role in ensuring reliable power supply to the U.S. Capitol, a key government and historical site. Its location in the heart of Washington, D.C., underscores its importance in supporting the operations of the federal government. The plant's small capacity and use of natural gas align with modern environmental standards.
Environmental context
The plant's use of natural gas results in lower CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions compared to coal or oil-fired plants. Its location in an urban area, Washington, D.C., means it operates under strict local and federal air quality regulations. The small capacity (7.5 MW) limits its overall environmental footprint, but proximity to populated areas requires adherence to stringent emission controls.
Frequently asked questions
The AOC Capitol Power Plant is located in Washington, D.C., United States, at coordinates 38.882700, -77.007400.
The plant uses natural gas as its primary fuel, which is a cleaner-burning fossil fuel.
The plant has a capacity of 7.5 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale power generation facility.
Gas-fired power plants in the U.S. must comply with the Clean Air Act, including National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), the Acid Rain Program, and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR).
The plant is owned and operated by the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) and serves the U.S. Capitol complex.