Overview
Calcasieu is a 358.8 MW gas power plant in Louisiana, USA, operated by Entergy Louisiana LLC. It provides electricity to the regional grid under US EPA regulatory frameworks.
Calcasieu is a gas-fired power generation facility located in Louisiana, United States, with a capacity of 358.8 megawatts. Owned and operated by Entergy Louisiana LLC, the plant is currently operational and contributes to the state's energy mix. Its location near the Gulf Coast places it within a region with significant industrial and residential electricity demand. The plant operates under the regulatory oversight 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 Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). As a gas-fired facility, it benefits from lower emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) compared to coal plants, aligning with modern environmental standards. The technology likely involves combined cycle or simple cycle gas turbines, typical for plants of this scale. Calcasieu plays a role in supporting grid reliability for the Entergy Louisiana service area, which includes residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Its gas-fired operation provides flexibility to meet peak demand and integrate with renewable sources. The plant's environmental footprint is moderated by its fuel choice and adherence to EPA regulations, though its proximity to populated areas may require ongoing monitoring of local air quality.
Environmental context
As a gas-fired power plant, Calcasieu emits lower levels of CO2, SO2, and NOx compared to coal-fired facilities, but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in Louisiana, a state with a mix of urban and industrial zones, means the plant's emissions are subject to EPA air quality standards. The facility's capacity of 358.8 MW places it in the medium-to-large scale for gas plants, and its operational status suggests compliance with current environmental regulations.
Frequently asked questions
The Calcasieu gas power plant is located in Louisiana, United States, near the Gulf Coast region.
The Calcasieu power plant has a capacity of 358.8 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-to-large scale gas-fired facility.
The Calcasieu power plant is owned by Entergy Louisiana LLC, a major utility company serving the region.
Gas power plants in the USA must comply with the Clean Air Act (CAA), including NAAQS for local air quality, the Acid Rain Program for SO2, and CSAPR for NOx transport. They also face greenhouse gas reporting requirements.
The Calcasieu plant provides electricity to the Entergy Louisiana grid, supporting residential, commercial, and industrial demand with flexible gas-fired generation.