Donald Von Raesfeld Power Plant - Gas Power Generation in Santa Clara, California

The Donald Von Raesfeld Power Plant is a natural gas-fired power generation facility located in Santa Clara, California, United States. With a capacity of 154 megawatts, it operates as a medium-scale plant within the state's diverse energy portfolio. The facility is owned by the City of Santa Clara and is currently operational, serving the local community's electricity needs. As a gas-fired plant, it utilizes combined-cycle or simple-cycle technology typical of modern natural gas facilities. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Clean Air Act, including the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and the Acid Rain Program. Compliance with emission limits for SOx, NOx, and other pollutants is managed through state and federal permits. The plant plays a role in supporting grid reliability in the Santa Clara area, contributing to the city's municipal utility system. Its location in an urbanized region necessitates careful environmental management, including monitoring of air quality impacts and adherence to local noise and land use regulations.

The plant's gas fuel source results in lower CO2 emissions per MWh compared to coal, but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in a populated area requires compliance with stringent air quality standards under the US Clean Air Act. The facility's age and technology type influence its efficiency and emission profile, with modern gas plants typically achieving higher efficiency and lower emissions than older units.