Suwannee River — 198 MW Natural Gas

The Suwannee River Power Generation Facility, operated by Duke Energy Florida LLC, is notable for its capacity of 197.7 MW, ranking #1,445 among the 10,047 power plants in the United States. This facility contributes a mere 0.01% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW, which is heavily dominated by gas-fired generation. The Suwannee River facility utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel, with oil as a secondary source, reflecting a broader trend within the U.S. energy landscape that favors cleaner-burning fuels over coal. Its location is significant, as it is surrounded by renewable energy installations like the Hamilton Solar Power Plant (74.9 MW) and Sunshine Gateway Solar Energy Center (74.5 MW), creating a unique energy mix in the region that promotes sustainability. The presence of these solar plants indicates a growing trend towards diversification in energy sources, especially in a state where natural gas remains the dominant fuel. Commissioned in 1980, the Suwannee River plant has been an integral part of Florida’s energy infrastructure for decades, adapting to changes in energy demand and supply dynamics. As the U.S. moves towards a cleaner energy future, the role of facilities like Suwannee River becomes increasingly important, especially as they complement renewable sources and help stabilize the grid during transitional phases. The facility’s operational flexibility and commitment to reliability will continue to support Florida’s energy needs while aligning with national efforts for a sustainable energy transition.