Overview
LSU Cogen is a 19.6 MW gas power plant in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, owned by LSU and A&M College. It provides on-site electricity and steam for the university campus.
LSU Cogen is a natural gas-fired cogeneration facility located on the campus of Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. With a capacity of 19.6 MW, it is a small-scale power plant that primarily serves the energy needs of the university. The plant is owned by LSU and A&M College and is currently operational. The facility 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 National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and the Acid Rain Program. As a gas-fired plant, it benefits from lower emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) compared to coal-fired units, though it still contributes to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The plant's small capacity and modern technology help mitigate its environmental footprint. LSU Cogen plays a critical role in supporting the university's operations by providing reliable electricity and steam for heating and cooling. Its location on campus reduces transmission losses and enhances energy security for the institution. The facility exemplifies the trend toward decentralized, on-site power generation in educational settings.
Environmental context
Located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, LSU Cogen operates in a region with a humid subtropical climate. The plant's use of natural gas results in lower emissions of SO2, NOx, and particulate matter compared to coal or oil, but it still emits CO2. Its small capacity (19.6 MW) and on-campus location minimize transmission losses and local air quality impacts. The facility is subject to EPA regulations under the Clean Air Act, including emission limits and monitoring requirements.
Frequently asked questions
LSU Cogen is located on the campus of Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA.
LSU Cogen has a capacity of 19.6 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale gas power plant.
LSU Cogen is owned by LSU and A&M College, the governing body of Louisiana State University.
Gas power plants in the USA are regulated under the Clean Air Act (CAA), including NAAQS, the Acid Rain Program, and CSAPR. They must meet emission limits for SO2, NOx, and other pollutants.
Small gas plants emit less CO2 per MWh than coal plants, and have lower SO2 and NOx emissions. However, they still contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and are subject to EPA monitoring and reporting requirements.