History
Overview
The Robert M. Beam Power Plant has evolved from a coal-fired facility supplying the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital into a modern, natural gas-powered plant supplying Western Michigan University. Acquired by WMU in 1994, it underwent major upgrades under Robert M. Beam’s leadership, fully transitioning to natural gas by 1999. Renamed in 2007 to honor Beam’s contributions, the plant remains a model of efficiency, sustainability and innovation in campus energy production.
Robert M. Beam Power Plant – Timeline of Key Milestones
1924
- Power plant constructed as a coal-fired facility, serving the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital.
1930s
- Service extended to Western Michigan University's East Campus, providing steam to Spindler Hall, Oakland Recital Hall and Walwood Hall.
1950s-60s
- 1950: Steam extended to West Campus with the construction of Burnham and Draper Halls.
- 1956: South plant addition built, housing a 125,000 LB/HR coal-fired boiler
- 1965: Another 125,000 LB/HR coal-fired boiler added.
1970s
- Peak steam demand reached 300,000 LB/HR before the first energy crisis
1991
- Environmental regulations led to partial conversion to natural gas for small boilers and select large boilers.
1994
- Western Michigan University takes over Power Plant operations from the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital due to declining hospital usage.
1999
- Coal burning is fully discontinued; Power Plant becomes a natural gas facility.
2001
- New training program implemented, saving Western Michigan University hundreds of thousands of dollars.
2007
- Power plant was renamed to Robert M. Beam Power plant in honor of Beam's leadership.