Archer Daniels Midland Cedar Rapids — 295 MW Coal

Archer Daniels Midland Cedar Rapids is a significant coal-fired power generation facility located in the United States, with geographical coordinates of 41.9221° N latitude and 91.6875° W longitude. Commissioned in 1996 and operated by Archer Daniels Midland Co, this power plant plays a crucial role in the energy mix of the region, contributing to the stability and reliability of the local grid. With a capacity of 294.6 MW, the Cedar Rapids plant utilizes coal as its primary fuel source, while also incorporating waste and natural gas as secondary and tertiary fuels, respectively. This multi-fuel approach enhances the plant’s operational flexibility and reduces environmental impacts by utilizing waste materials. The generation technology employed at Cedar Rapids primarily revolves around conventional coal combustion, which is a common method for electricity generation in many parts of the United States. As a vital component of Iowa’s energy landscape, Cedar Rapids helps to ensure that the state can meet its energy demands, particularly during peak usage periods. The plant’s output is essential not only for local consumption but also supports the wider regional grid, reinforcing the energy security of the Midwest. The operational context of the Cedar Rapids facility is framed by the evolving energy policies in the United States, which increasingly emphasize a transition toward cleaner energy sources. However, coal remains a critical part of the energy mix in many states, including Iowa, where it serves as a foundational source of baseload power. The presence of the Archer Daniels Midland Cedar Rapids power plant underscores the complexities of energy generation in the U.S., where traditional fuel sources continue to coexist with renewable initiatives. As the country navigates its energy future, facilities like Cedar Rapids will remain integral to balancing energy needs, sustainability goals, and economic viability.