US EditionDOE orders WA coal plant to continue operating despite state ban
DOE extended operation of Centralia coal plant for 90 days citing a 9.3% rise in peak winter electricity demand to prevent blackouts in the Pacific Northwest.
- On Tuesday, Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued an emergency order forcing TransAlta to keep the 730-MW Centralia Unit 2 in Centralia, Washington, available for 90 days through March 16, 2026.
- Citing grid reliability, the DOE referenced a NERC winter assessment warning that extreme winter weather could cause supply shortfalls and noted peak demand rose 2.5% since last winter.
- The order requires TransAlta to `take all measures necessary` to keep Unit 2 available at the direction of Bonneville Power Administration or California Independent System Operator, while BPA must facilitate transmission and the action declares a national energy emergency referencing Trump executive orders.
- Environmental groups vowed to challenge DOE orders in court, accusing the administration of a fake emergency that will raise costs and pollution, while analysts warn rates for Washingtonians will likely increase.
- The planned gas conversion would have converted the unit to natural gas with 700 MW capacity under a $600 million conversion estimate expected to cut emissions by 50%.
20 Articles
20 Articles
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