Livingston Generating Station — 170 MW Natural Gas

Situated in Michigan, the Livingston Generating Station, with a capacity of 170.1 MW, ranks as the 785th largest gas plant in the United States and holds the 1545th position among the nation’s 10,047 power generation facilities. This facility, owned and operated by CMS Generation MI Power LLC and commissioned in 1998, represents a negligible share of 0.01% of the country’s total capacity of 1,386,385 MW, which is predominantly sourced from natural gas.

Utilizing gas-fired technology, Livingston Generating Station plays a vital role in providing reliable electricity to the region, particularly during peak demand periods. Gas plants like Livingston are essential for balancing energy supply and demand, especially as the grid increasingly incorporates renewable energy sources. Within a close radius of approximately 50 km, the plant is surrounded by several notable facilities, including the Alpine Power Plant, boasting a capacity of 453.8 MW, and the Gaylord – Wolverine Plant at 70.2 MW. The Grayling Generating Station, which utilizes waste as a fuel source, contributes 38 MW, while the Tower facility operates on oil with a 21.3 MW capacity. Additionally, the Kleber hydro plant, with a small capacity of 1.8 MW, adds diversity to the local energy mix.

Michigan’s energy profile is heavily influenced by its reliance on natural gas, making gas generation facilities like Livingston critical to maintaining grid stability and reliability. The presence of multiple gas plants in the vicinity indicates a concentrated effort to ensure that demand is met efficiently, particularly as renewable energy sources become more prevalent. The 0.01% share of national capacity underscores the importance of all plants, regardless of size, in contributing to the overall energy landscape.

As part of CMS Generation MI Power LLC’s portfolio, Livingston Generating Station has been a crucial asset since its commissioning in 1998, providing essential power to the Michigan grid. The facility not only supports local energy needs but also contributes to job creation and regional economic activity.

In an era of increasing scrutiny on carbon emissions and a shift towards cleaner energy, the Livingston Generating Station exemplifies the transitional role of gas in the energy mix. As the U.S. moves towards more sustainable energy solutions, facilities like Livingston will continue to be significant in providing the necessary backup for intermittent renewable energy sources, ensuring a reliable and resilient energy future.