Castleton Energy Center: Gas Power Plant in New York, United States

Castleton Energy Center is a gas-fired power generation facility located in New York, United States. With a capacity of 72 MW, it is a small-scale plant within the US power generation sector, contributing to the region's electricity supply. The plant is owned and operated by Fortistar Castleton Power and is currently operational. The facility operates on natural gas, a cleaner-burning fossil fuel compared to coal, resulting in lower emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter. As a gas power plant, it falls under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act and associated programs such as the Acid Rain Program and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). These regulations set emission limits for nitrogen oxides (NOx) and other pollutants to protect air quality. Castleton Energy Center plays a role in meeting local energy demand, particularly during peak periods. Its location in New York places it within a region with diverse power generation sources, including hydroelectric and nuclear. The plant's relatively small capacity allows it to provide flexible generation to support grid stability.

The plant's use of natural gas results in lower CO2 emissions per MWh compared to coal, but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its proximity to populated areas in New York may raise local air quality considerations, though modern gas plants are subject to stringent EPA emission standards. The facility's age and technology (likely combined cycle or simple cycle) influence its efficiency and environmental footprint.