Lee Energy Facility - 692 MW Gas Power Plant in Lee County, Illinois, USA

Lee Energy Facility is a natural gas-fired power generation station located in Lee County, Illinois, within the United States. With a capacity of 692 megawatts (MW), it operates as a mid-to-large scale gas power plant, contributing to the state's energy mix. The facility is owned and operated by Lee County Generating Station and is currently in operational status. The plant utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel, a cleaner-burning fossil fuel compared to coal, resulting in lower emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. As a gas-fired facility, it likely employs combined cycle or simple cycle technology, which offers flexibility and efficiency. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and associated programs such as the Acid Rain Program and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR), which set emission limits and require monitoring. Located in rural Lee County, the facility's environmental impact is mitigated by its fuel choice and modern emission controls. Its capacity of 692 MW positions it as a significant contributor to local grid reliability, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers in northern Illinois. The plant's operational status ensures ongoing power generation for the region, supporting economic activity and energy security.

The Lee Energy Facility's use of natural gas results in lower carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per megawatt-hour compared to coal-fired plants, but it still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in a rural area reduces direct exposure to densely populated communities, though regional air quality may be affected by NOx and SO2 emissions. The plant's age and technology (likely combined cycle) influence its efficiency and environmental footprint. Compliance with EPA regulations under the Clean Air Act ensures adherence to emission standards, including those for ozone and particulate matter.