Holden Gas Power Plant: 321 MW Facility in Missouri, United States

Holden is a gas-fired power plant located in Missouri, United States, with a capacity of 321 MW. It is owned and operated by Associated Electric Cooperative Inc, a generation and transmission cooperative serving rural electric cooperatives in Missouri and surrounding states. The plant operates on natural gas, a fuel that offers flexibility and lower emissions compared to coal. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and its National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), as well as the Acid Rain Program and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). These regulations govern emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and other pollutants. As a gas-fired plant, Holden benefits from relatively lower emissions per megawatt-hour compared to coal-fired units, aligning with modern environmental standards. Holden plays a key role in the regional power grid, providing reliable electricity to rural communities. Its capacity of 321 MW places it in the medium-to-large scale for gas plants in the US. The plant's operational status and ownership by a cooperative highlight its importance in serving member-owners with affordable and dependable power.

As a gas-fired power plant, Holden has a lower carbon footprint compared to coal plants, but still emits CO2 and other pollutants. Its location in rural Missouri reduces direct exposure to dense populations, though regional air quality may be affected. The plant's age and technology (subcritical vs. Modern gas plants often achieve higher efficiency. Regulatory compliance with EPA standards helps mitigate environmental impact.