Two Views Of The Eckert Plant

I took both of these photos of the old Eckert Power Plant from the roof of the new power plant in Reotown.

Reotown Depot

Along with constructing the new steam plant in Reotown, the Board of Water and Light also  rehabilitated and renovated the Grand Trunk Western railroad station adjacent to the plant.  The restored building now serves as a large gathering hall for social events.

New Steam & Electric Plant

On Tuesday, Valerie and I had an opportunity to visit the new Board of Water and Light Cogeneration Plant in Reotown.  The "co" part in cogeneration refers to both the steam and electricity production capabilities of the plant.  The giant natural gas turbines primarily generate steam for homes and businesses in Lansing.  The General Motors Grand River plant uses over a third of the steam.  The plant recycles the excess heat to generate up to 138 megawatts of electricity that helps power Lansing.  The turbines are fast starting and can generate electricity very quickly compared to their older coal powered predecessors, which take 6 to 10 hours to start.  This allows the power plant to get power back on the grid should a blackout occur.