Overview
Colby is a 16 MW gas power plant in Kansas, United States, operated by Midwest Energy Inc. It supplies electricity to the local grid.
Colby is a gas-fired power plant located in Kansas, United States, with a capacity of 16 MW. It is owned and operated by Midwest Energy Inc, a utility serving the region. The plant is operational and contributes to the local power supply. As a gas power plant, Colby operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act and associated rules such as the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). Gas-fired plants generally have lower emissions of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter compared to coal plants, but still require compliance with emission standards for nitrogen oxides and other pollutants. The plant's relatively small capacity indicates it serves a local or community-scale role, likely providing peaking or intermediate load support. Its location in Kansas, a state with significant wind energy resources, means it may complement renewable generation. The plant's operational status ensures continued reliability for the area's electricity needs.
Environmental context
The Colby gas power plant, with a capacity of 16 MW, has a relatively low environmental footprint compared to larger fossil fuel plants. Gas combustion produces carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and trace amounts of other pollutants. The plant's location in a rural area of Kansas reduces direct exposure to dense populations. Compliance with EPA regulations, including the Clean Air Act, ensures emission controls are in place. The plant's small scale and gas fuel type contribute to a moderate environmental impact.
Frequently asked questions
The Colby power plant is located in Kansas, United States, near the city of Colby. Its coordinates are 39.4030 N, -101.0382 W.
The Colby power plant uses natural gas as its primary fuel. It is classified as a gas power plant.
The Colby power plant is owned and operated by Midwest Energy Inc, a utility company serving parts of Kansas.
Gas power plants in the United States must comply with the Clean Air Act, including emission limits for nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter. The Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR) also applies to plants that contribute to downwind pollution.
With a capacity of 16 MW, the Colby plant is considered small-scale. Typical gas power plants range from 100 MW to over 1,000 MW for large combined-cycle units. Smaller plants like Colby often serve local or peaking needs.