The Cumberland Energy Center began commercial operation in 1990 and is equipped with water injection for NOx control and continuous emissions monitoring.  The plant can be operated locally or via remote control.

Unit 2 of the plant is also synchronous condenser capable, meaning the units can spin while connected to the grid but not produce energy.  In this mode, the units can be used as voltage support and as spinning reserve and can be brought online quickly.  Two gas compressors boost natural gas line pressure for each combustion turbine.

Calpine acquired the facility in 2010 as part of its purchase of the Conectiv Energy assets.