Overview
Oakdale Renewable Energy Plant is a 2.8 MW gas power plant in Iowa, United States, owned by the University of Iowa. It is operational and serves as a small-scale generation facility.
Oakdale Renewable Energy Plant is a gas-fired power generation facility located in Iowa, United States. With a capacity of 2.8 MW, it is classified as a small-scale power plant within the US energy sector. The plant is owned by the University of Iowa and is currently operational. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US 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 facility, it benefits from lower emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) compared to coal-fired plants, aligning with modern environmental standards. As a university-owned facility, Oakdale Renewable Energy Plant supports the University of Iowa's energy needs and sustainability goals. Its small capacity suggests it may serve as a combined heat and power (CHP) or backup generation source, contributing to campus energy resilience and reducing reliance on grid electricity.
Environmental context
The plant's gas fuel type results in lower CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions per MWh compared to coal or oil plants. Its small capacity (2.8 MW) limits its overall environmental footprint. Located in Iowa, a state with growing renewable energy integration, the plant operates under US EPA regulations that require emission controls and monitoring. Proximity to populated areas is minimal given its campus setting.
Frequently asked questions
Oakdale Renewable Energy Plant is located in Iowa, United States, at coordinates 41.705300, -91.603300. It is owned by the University of Iowa.
The plant uses natural gas as its primary fuel, making it a gas-fired power generation facility.
Oakdale Renewable Energy Plant has a capacity of 2.8 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-scale power plant.
Gas power plants in the US must comply with the Clean Air Act (CAA), including National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), the Acid Rain Program, and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). These regulations limit emissions of SO2, NOx, and other pollutants.
The plant is owned by the University of Iowa, which operates it as part of its campus energy infrastructure.