Overview
Cabra Corral is a 102 MW hydroelectric power plant in Argentina, operated by AES Argentina Generacion S.A. It generates renewable energy from hydropower.
Cabra Corral is a hydroelectric power plant located in Argentina, with an installed capacity of 102 megawatts (MW). The facility is owned and operated by AES Argentina Generacion S.A., a major energy company in the region. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses the energy of flowing water to generate electricity, contributing to Argentina's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under Argentina's regulatory framework for renewable energy, which includes incentives for hydroelectric power. Hydroelectric plants like Cabra Corral typically use turbines driven by water flow to produce electricity. The 102 MW capacity places it in the medium-scale range for hydroelectric facilities in Argentina, supporting the national grid with clean energy. Environmentally, hydroelectric power is a low-carbon energy source, but it can have local ecological impacts such as alterations to water flow and aquatic habitats. Cabra Corral's operations are subject to environmental regulations that aim to balance energy generation with ecosystem protection. The plant plays a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation at Cabra Corral produces minimal direct air emissions, contributing to lower CO2, SOx, and NOx footprints compared to thermal plants. However, the facility's reservoir may affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow patterns. The plant's location in Argentina's Salta province involves considerations for water resource management and biodiversity conservation. Regulatory oversight ensures compliance with environmental standards to mitigate these impacts.
Frequently asked questions
Cabra Corral is located in Argentina, specifically in the Salta province. The exact coordinates are latitude -25.2712 and longitude -65.3298.
Cabra Corral has an installed capacity of 102 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned and operated by AES Argentina Generacion S.A., a subsidiary of the global energy company AES Corporation.
Hydroelectric plants in Argentina must comply with national environmental laws, including water resource management and biodiversity protection. The regulatory framework includes requirements for environmental impact assessments and ongoing monitoring.
Hydroelectric power is a renewable energy source with low greenhouse gas emissions. However, it can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change water quality. Proper siting and mitigation measures are essential to minimize ecological impacts.