Overview
Imatra is a 192 MW hydroelectric power plant in Finland, operated by Fortum Power & Heat OY. It is an operational facility contributing to Finland's renewable energy capacity.
Imatra is a hydroelectric power plant located in Finland, operated by Fortum Power & Heat OY. With a capacity of 192 MW, it is a medium-to-large scale facility within the Finnish hydropower sector. The plant is operational and plays a role in the country's renewable energy mix. Hydroelectric power plants like Imatra convert the energy of flowing water into electricity. In Finland, hydropower is a well-established renewable energy source, supported by the country's abundant water resources and regulatory frameworks such as the EU Water Framework Directive. The plant's technology is typical for run-of-river or reservoir-based hydropower, depending on local hydrology. The environmental significance of Imatra lies in its low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel-based generation. Hydropower provides flexible and reliable electricity, contributing to grid stability and supporting Finland's goals for carbon neutrality. The facility's location on a river also requires careful management of aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes.
Environmental context
Hydropower plants like Imatra have a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through altered water flow and fish migration. In Finland, stringent EU environmental regulations govern hydropower operations to minimize ecological impact. The plant's capacity of 192 MW indicates a moderate scale, balancing energy production with environmental stewardship.
Frequently asked questions
The Imatra hydroelectric power plant is located in Finland, with coordinates approximately 61.1669 N, 28.7745 E.
The Imatra power plant has a capacity of 192 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-to-large scale hydroelectric facility.
The Imatra hydroelectric plant is owned and operated by Fortum Power & Heat OY, a leading energy company in the Nordic region.
Hydropower plants in Finland must comply with the EU Water Framework Directive and national environmental laws, which aim to protect water quality and aquatic ecosystems while allowing sustainable energy generation.
Hydroelectric power is a key renewable energy source in Finland, providing flexible and low-carbon electricity. It supports grid stability and helps Finland achieve its carbon neutrality targets.