Army Cancels Replacement of Fort Wainwright's Coal-Fired Heat and Power Plant

The Army has canceled its plan to replace Fort Wainwright's nearly 70-year-old coal-fired heat and power plant. Initially decided in 2022, the termination aligns with an executive order from President Trump promoting fossil fuels. The plant has faced reliability issues, excessive emissions, and high operational costs. Despite upgrades, concerns remain regarding the plant's aging infrastructure and its inability to meet regulatory standards. The Army's reevaluation of the project considers the availability of natural gas resources.

Published Mar 21, 2026

The Army has canceled plans to replace Fort Wainwright's coal-fired heat and power plant, initially decided in 2022. This decision aligns with a 2025 executive order from President Trump promoting fossil fuel use.

AI-curated by Theia

The plant, operational since 1955, has faced reliability issues, excessive emissions, and high heating costs. Despite $70 million in upgrades, it has experienced failures that halted electricity generation. The Army's reassessment of the plant's future comes amid concerns over dwindling natural gas supplies and considers current technologies and resource availability.