How Old Are US Power Plants?

15 years evfsmyth 0 Comments

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), about 530 gigawatts, or 51% of all generating capacity, were at least 30 years old at the end of 2010.

The U.S. fleet of electric power generators has a very wide range of ages, dependent on technology type.

Notable findings in the report:

  • 73% of all coal-fired capacity was 30 years or older at the end of 2010
  • The majority of natural gas capacity is less than 10 years old
  • The nations oldest power plants tend to be hydroelectric power generators
  • The most recent waves of generating capacity additions include natural gas-fired units and renewable units, primarily wind

Interesting info.

Image sources: U.S. EIA