Cowes Power Station

Cowes Power Station is a 140MW open cycle, gas turbine (OCGT) power station. Opened in 1982, the Station stands on the site of a former coal fired power station and is the only major power station on the Isle of Wight.

OCGT power plants have the advantage of being able to produce large amounts of electricity very quickly. From shutdown, Cowes is capable of achieving full load in 5 minutes and under emergency conditions this can be achieved within 3 minutes. The Station is also able to provide synchronous compensation, a mode used to rectify undesirable voltage conditions which can occur when transmitting alternating current electrical power via transmission lines.

The station is integrated into the National Grid System enabling it to export electricity to the mainland as well as providing greater security of electricity supply on the island.

The power station’s day to day activities are managed by three island based staff. In addition, remote operational and engineering support is provided from the nearby Fawley Power Station, where there is a capability to operate the plant remotely.