The largest fossil plant in SCE&G's system generates 700 megawatts of electricity by burning pulverized coal in two identical generation units. At full load, Wateree Station can produce enough energy in one hour to supply the average electric needs of 700 residential customers for one month.
Environmental Initiatives
- Nearly $50 million was spent to install baghouses that remove fly ash from the boilers. The fly ash is recycled for use in concrete products, reducing the need for disposal. They were put into operation in 2001 and 2002.
- Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) equipment was installed in 2003 to reduce nitrous oxide gases (NOx). The total cost was more than $73 million and has reduced NOx emissions by more than 70 percent.
- A scrubber has been installed for both units in 2009 to reduce sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions. At a cost of more than $200 million, the scrubber will eliminate more than 95 percent of SO2. A co-benefit is that approximately 60-90 percent of mercury emissions will be eliminated.
- Other environmental contributions at Wateree include the addition of a $67 million closed cycle cooling water system in 2006. This virtually eliminates the plant’s dependence on the Wateree River and has a positive impact on wildlife.
Wateree Station Landfill
SCE&G has been making environmental improvements to Wateree Station over the years as part of the company’s commitment to a cleaner environment. The most recent improvement began in 2005 with plans to install flue gas scrubbers to reduce sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions during electricity generation. SO2 is a gas formed when coal and oil are burned. It contributes to smog and acid rain. A scrubber was installed at Wateree in 2009.
In a scrubber, limestone is mixed with water and sprayed into the coal combustion gases. The limestone captures the sulfur and “pulls” it out of the gases. In the scrubbing process, limestone and sulfur combine to form gypsum, a byproduct that will need to be stored. Gypsum is sometimes used to make wallboard, drywall or concrete. It can also be used as a soil conditioner for growing certain plants. SCE&G will store the gypsum in a state-of-the-art landfill at Wateree Station, which is the most environmentally sound disposal alternative.
Wateree Landfill Video
Watch a short video simulating natural buffers of trees and other foliage that will surround Wateree Station Landfill, as well as native or natural grasses that will cover it.
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Plant Facts
- Located in Eastover, S.C.
- Generates 700 megawatts of electricity.
- Began commercial operation in 1970.
- Burns approximately 250 tons of coal per hour when operating at full load.
- Pays approximately $4.7 million in property taxes annually.
- Employs 103 employees.
