Chicago West Side Energy Center: 3.5 MW Gas Power Plant in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago West Side Energy Center is a gas-fired power plant located in Chicago, Illinois, United States. With a capacity of 3.5 MW, it is a small-scale facility that contributes to the local energy supply. The plant is owned by Energy Systems Group LLC and is currently operational. As a gas power plant, it operates using natural gas, which has a lower carbon footprint compared to coal but still emits CO2 and other pollutants. The facility is subject to US EPA regulations under the Clean Air Act, including New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for greenhouse gases. Its small capacity suggests it may serve as a peaking plant or support local distribution. The plant's location in an urban area like Chicago means it plays a role in meeting local electricity demand. Its environmental impact is relatively modest due to its size and fuel type, but it still contributes to regional air quality considerations. The facility supports grid reliability in the Chicago area.

The plant's gas fuel type results in lower CO2 emissions per MWh compared to coal, but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in a densely populated urban area raises considerations for local air quality, particularly NOx and particulate matter. The small capacity (3.5 MW) limits its overall environmental footprint, but it operates under US EPA regulations such as the Clean Air Act and regional haze rules.