How Old Are US Power Plants?
August 16th, 2011 by Elizabeth Smyth
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
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About the Author
Elizabeth Smyth is a writer for Precision Paragon, an energy efficient commercial lighting manufacturer and a leading source for lighting retrofit solutions.
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