BROOKINGS, S.D. (AP) - Basin Electric Power Cooperative has begun operating its Deer Creek Station power plant in eastern South Dakota.
The plant is Bismarck, N.D.-based Basin Electric's first combined-cycle facility.
The plant near Brookings uses natural gas and steam to produce electricity. It has a capacity of about 300 megawatts, or roughly enough energy to power 300,000 homes.
The plant began commercial operations Aug. 1. A dedication ceremony for the plant will be held Aug. 16.
Basin Electric supplies power to 134 rural electric systems in nine states.
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