Arizona G&T Cooperatives > What We Do > Generation

Generation

Apache Generating Station

Apache Generating Station generates a total of 605 MW near Cochise, Arizona. AEPCO continues to diversify its energy portfolio. In addition to natural gas and coal units, we generate 20 MW of renewable energy at Apache Solar Project at Apache Station.

AEPCO owns Apache Generating Station at Cochise, Arizona, south of Willcox and east of Benson. Apache Station has:

  • 605 megawatts of combined gross generating capacity
  • 3 steam generating units: ST1 and ST2 burn natural gas as a primary fuel; ST3 has the capability of burning either coal or natural gas alone as primary fuels, and can burn both in combination
  • 4 gas turbines
John Keith, left, Martin Smith and other Apache Station team members are critical to operating our newly converted natural gas unit, ST2.

In 2017, ST2 was converted from burning coal to pipeline natural gas as its primary fuel. We also upgraded ST3 to reduce emissions. Employees work in three shifts around the clock at the plant to deliver a reliable source of electric power.

  • Apache Station provides power to more than 161,000 meters and 420,000 people in Arizona, California and New Mexico through six Class A Member distribution cooperatives.
  • AEPCO is one of 62 generation and transmission electric cooperatives in the nation.

Steam Unit 3 Can Co-Fire Coal and Gas

illustration: 4 coal burning parts and two interspersed gas burning parts. Text: "Front of Boiler. (Rear identical)"
ST3 is one of the most flexible generating units in the industry, with the ability to burn coal and natural gas at the same time. This flexibility enables us to take advantage of the lowest fuel prices available, holding down generating costs for our Members.

Positioning for the Future

From reducing fuel costs to implementing new efficiencies, we are positioning Arizona G&T Cooperatives to become even more competitive. At the same time, we maintain our strong commitment to the environment, reliability and safety.

Complying with environmental regulations is a big part of our job. Learn more in our Environment section. The public is invited to enjoy our Apache Station Wildlife Viewing Area.

Apache Generating Station Beats Industry Reliability Averages

The following is a Combined Forced Outage Rate Report for Apache Generating Station ST2 & ST3.

Industry standard 2010–2018: 8%. Apache Generating Station Rate: 2010: 0.94%, 2011: 1.08%, 2012: 1.62%, 2013: 2.65%, 2014: 1.8%, 2015: 0.69%, 2016: 3.81%, 2017: 2.89%, 2018 (January through September): 1.77%

Fast Facts About Steam Units 2 and 3

  • 3.4 million feet of electric cable, equal to 644 miles
  • 43,394 cubic yards of concrete, equal to 450 miles of sidewalk
  • 194,700 KVA capacity of GE turbine-generator
  • 3,600 RPM
  • 2,400 PSIG
  • 1.3 million lbs/hour at 1,005 F: steam generation
  • 192 feet: height of steam units
  • 2,400 tons of structural steel in each boiler unit