Overview
Alicura is a 1,050 MW hydroelectric power plant in Argentina, operated by AES Argentina Generacion S.A. It is a key renewable energy facility in the country's power grid.
Alicura is a hydroelectric power plant located in Argentina, with an installed capacity of 1,050 MW. It is owned and operated by AES Argentina Generacion S.A., a major energy company in the region. The plant plays a significant role in Argentina's renewable energy portfolio, contributing to the country's efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The facility operates as a conventional hydroelectric plant, utilizing water flow to generate electricity. With a capacity of 1,050 MW, it is considered a large-scale hydroelectric facility by global standards. The plant's technology and operational practices are subject to Argentina's national energy regulations, which promote sustainable hydropower development and environmental stewardship. Alicura's location in the Patagonian region of Argentina provides access to abundant water resources from the Limay River. The plant supports the regional power grid, supplying electricity to nearby communities and industries. Its operation contributes to the local economy and helps meet the growing energy demand in Argentina, while maintaining a low carbon footprint compared to thermal power plants.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Alicura has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel-based power generation. However, large-scale hydropower can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's reservoir may alter downstream habitats and fish migration patterns. Proximity to populated areas is limited due to its remote Patagonian location, reducing direct human exposure to operational impacts. The facility operates under Argentina's environmental regulations for hydropower, which include measures for water quality management and ecological monitoring.
Frequently asked questions
The Alicura hydroelectric power plant is located in the Patagonian region of Argentina, on the Limay River. Its coordinates are approximately 40.58°S, 70.75°W.
The Alicura hydroelectric power plant has an installed capacity of 1,050 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest hydroelectric facilities in Argentina.
The Alicura hydroelectric plant is owned and operated by AES Argentina Generacion S.A., a subsidiary of the global energy company AES Corporation.
Hydroelectric plants in Argentina are subject to national environmental laws, including the General Environmental Law (Ley General del Ambiente) and specific regulations for water resource management. These require environmental impact assessments, water quality monitoring, and measures to protect aquatic ecosystems.
Hydroelectric power is a major component of Argentina's renewable energy portfolio, providing clean, low-carbon electricity. It helps reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels and supports national goals for sustainable energy development.