Century Generating Facility - 44.8 MW Gas Power Plant in California, USA

Century Generating Facility is a gas-fired power plant located in California, United States, with an operational status. The facility is owned by Colton Power LP and has a capacity of 44.8 MW, placing it in the small-scale category for gas power plants in the region. The plant 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. As a gas-fired facility, it typically benefits from lower emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter compared to coal plants, but still must comply with NOx and CO2 regulations. Century Generating Facility contributes to the local power supply in California, a state with ambitious renewable energy goals and a diverse energy mix. Its gas-fired generation provides flexibility and reliability to support grid stability, especially during periods of high demand or when renewable sources are intermittent.

The facility uses natural gas as its primary fuel, which produces lower CO2 emissions per MWh compared to coal but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in California places it under stringent state and federal air quality regulations, including the California Air Resources Board (CARB) rules. The plant's moderate capacity and gas fuel type result in a moderate environmental footprint relative to larger coal or oil plants.