Overview
San Clemente is a 6 MW hydroelectric power plant in Chile, operated by Colbun S.A. It contributes to the country's renewable energy capacity.
San Clemente is a hydroelectric power plant located in Chile, with an installed capacity of 6 megawatts. The facility is owned and operated by Colbun S.A., a major energy company in the country. As a small-scale hydro plant, it plays a role in diversifying Chile's energy mix, which increasingly relies on renewable sources. Hydroelectric power plants like San Clemente convert the energy of flowing water into electricity. In Chile, hydropower is a significant component of the national grid, supported by the country's mountainous geography and abundant water resources. The plant operates under Chile's general environmental and energy regulations, which promote clean energy development. The plant's modest capacity indicates it likely serves local or regional electricity needs. Its operation contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based generation. The facility is part of Colbun S.A.'s portfolio of renewable energy assets, aligning with Chile's goals for sustainable energy production.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The San Clemente plant's small scale likely minimizes these impacts. Chile's regulatory framework for hydro projects includes environmental impact assessments to mitigate such effects. The plant's location in a region with significant water resources supports its operation.
Frequently asked questions
The San Clemente hydroelectric power plant is located in Chile, at coordinates approximately 35.5982° S, 71.3556° W.
The San Clemente hydroelectric power plant has an installed capacity of 6 megawatts (MW).
The San Clemente hydroelectric plant is owned and operated by Colbun S.A., a prominent energy company in Chile.
Hydroelectric power plants in Chile are subject to environmental impact assessments under the country's environmental law (Ley 19.300) and energy sector regulations overseen by the Ministry of Energy and the National Energy Commission.
As a small hydroelectric facility, San Clemente adds renewable capacity to Chile's grid, supporting the country's goal of increasing non-conventional renewable energy sources to 20% of electricity generation by 2025.