Gravel Neck Gas Power Plant | Virginia, United States

Gravel Neck is a natural gas power generation facility located in Virginia, United States, with a capacity of 407.7 megawatts. The plant is owned and operated by Virginia Electric & Power Co, a major utility in the region. It plays a role in meeting the electricity demands of the surrounding area. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency, including the Clean Air Act and its associated programs such as the Acid Rain Program and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule. As a gas-fired facility, it benefits from lower emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides compared to coal plants, though it still contributes to carbon dioxide emissions. Gravel Neck's operational status is active, and its location in Virginia places it within a region with a mix of industrial, commercial, and residential electricity consumers. The plant's capacity is considered medium-scale for a gas power plant, and it supports grid reliability in the area.

The plant's use of natural gas as primary fuel results in lower emissions of SOx and NOx compared to coal, but it still produces CO2. Its location in Virginia, with proximity to populated areas, means local air quality considerations are relevant. Modern gas plants often employ combined cycle technology for higher efficiency.