|
The
biomass power industry in the United States is substantial. Across the
country in 2003, there are approximately 80 operating biomass power
plants. These plants are located in 19 states. In addition, there are
about 40 plants which are operable, but which are currently not operating.
The operating biomass power plants
nationwide represent about 1,676 megawatts (mW) of generating capacity.
The plants that sell into the nation's electricity grid are referred to as
"sales generation" plants, while others that do not sell into
the grid are called "self-generating" plants, and use the power
internally.
It is the sales generation plants that
are threatened by the nationwide movement to a low-price-only electric
industry deregulation.
About 35% of the
sales generation biomass plants are located in California. Three states,
California, Maine, and Michigan, provide 56% of the biomass sales
generation capacity. Approximately 88% of the biomass sales capacity is
located in ten states, as is shown below.
|
