Benefits of NRG's West's new power plant -- generating electricity more efficiently, using less fuel and creating fewer air emissions:
 New state-of-the-art technology means a smaller carbon footprint;
Replacing ocean water cooling systems with air cooling to protect marine life;
Quick starting units -- 10 minutes startup times versus several hours -- provide critical backstop for wind generation and other alternative energy sources at peak demand periods;
Reduce use of drinking/potable water for plant operations through usage of reclaimed water;
Highly efficient natural-gas fueled generating units produce significantly lower emissions and burn 30% less natural gas;
Supports California's efforts to address global warming.
The Encina Power Station is a responsible corporate citizen and environmental steward, which is best encapsulated in NRG's econrg program. NRG West is proud of its positive influence on the adjacent Agua Hedionda Lagoon, including periodic maintenance lagoon dredging and beach sand replenishment, its encouragement of marine research and repopulation of White Sea Bass at the Hubbs-Sea World fish hatchery and its support for aquaculture by Carlsbad Aquafarms. NRG's econrg environmental efforts in Carlsbad have garnered the following recognition:
The Environmental Responsibility Award from the San Diego Industrial Environmental Association for the leadership in combating the invasive marine algae caulerpa taxifolia (aka "Killer Algae" ) found in Agua Hedionda Lagoon.
 The Environmental Responsibility Award from the San Diego Industrial Environmental Association for the contributions that helped establish the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation's Nature Center.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Walter B. Jones Memorial Excellence in Business Leadership award for leadership in eradicating the invasion of caulerpa taxifolia.
Completing this third year in the California Climate Action Registry voluntary program, NRG is recognized as a Climate Action Leader and is supportive of California's goal to reduce the state's contribution of greenhouse gas emissions.
| | | | | Carlsbad Energy Center // Powering California with NRG //
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