Overview
Copeton is a 24 MW hydroelectric power plant in New South Wales, Australia, operated by AGL Energy. It contributes to the region's renewable energy capacity.
Copeton is a hydroelectric power plant located in New South Wales, Australia, with an installed capacity of 24 MW. Owned and operated by AGL Energy Pty Ltd, the facility is currently operational and plays a role in the country's renewable energy mix. As a hydroelectric facility, Copeton utilizes water flow to generate electricity, a technology that produces no direct CO2 emissions during operation. The plant's capacity of 24 MW places it in the small-to-medium scale range for hydroelectric power in Australia. The facility operates under Australia's National Electricity Market regulations and environmental standards. Copeton contributes to grid stability and renewable energy generation in the region. Its operation supports Australia's transition towards lower-carbon energy sources, aligning with national renewable energy targets. The plant's location in New South Wales provides clean electricity to local communities and industries.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation like Copeton has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through changes in water flow and temperature. The plant's capacity of 24 MW is relatively small, reducing its potential environmental impact. Hydro projects in Australia typically undergo environmental assessments to mitigate ecological effects.
Frequently asked questions
Copeton hydroelectric power plant is located in New South Wales, Australia, near the Copeton Dam.
Copeton has an installed capacity of 24 megawatts (MW), making it a small-to-medium scale hydroelectric facility.
Copeton is owned and operated by AGL Energy Pty Ltd, one of Australia's leading energy companies.
Hydroelectric plants in Australia must comply with the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and state-level environmental laws, which require assessments of impacts on water flows and ecosystems.
Copeton generates renewable electricity without direct CO2 emissions, supporting Australia's renewable energy targets and grid stability in New South Wales.