Overview
Interstate is a 138.6 MW gas power plant in Springfield, Illinois, operated by the City of Springfield. It provides electricity to the local grid under US EPA regulations.
Interstate is a gas-fired power generation facility located in Springfield, Illinois, United States. With a capacity of 138.6 MW, it operates as a medium-scale plant within the US power sector, serving the local community under the ownership of the City of Springfield. The plant utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel, a cleaner-burning fossil fuel compared to coal. It operates under the regulatory framework of the US Clean Air Act, including NAAQS and the Acid Rain Program, which govern emissions of SOx, NOx, and other pollutants. The facility's technology is typical for gas plants of this era, likely employing combined cycle or simple cycle gas turbines. As a municipal utility asset, Interstate plays a key role in providing reliable electricity to Springfield and surrounding areas. Its gas-fired operation contributes to lower carbon intensity relative to coal plants, aligning with regional trends toward cleaner energy. The plant's location in central Illinois supports grid stability and local economic activity.
Environmental context
The plant's gas-fired operation results in lower CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions compared to coal plants, but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in Springfield, a mid-sized city, means proximity to populated areas, requiring compliance with local air quality standards. The facility's age and technology (likely combined cycle) influence its efficiency and environmental footprint.
Frequently asked questions
The Interstate power plant is located in Springfield, Illinois, United States, at coordinates 39.8233 N, -89.5891 W.
The Interstate gas power plant has a capacity of 138.6 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale facility in the US power generation sector.
The Interstate power plant is owned by the City of Springfield, Illinois, and operates as a municipal utility asset.
Gas power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act, including NAAQS for local air quality, the Acid Rain Program for SO2 emissions, and CSAPR for cross-state pollution. They also face greenhouse gas reporting requirements.
The Interstate plant provides reliable electricity to Springfield and the surrounding region, supporting grid stability and local energy needs as a municipal utility.