Overview
Gour Noir (Le) is a 40 MW hydroelectric power plant in France, operated by EDF. It contributes to the country's renewable energy mix.
Gour Noir (Le) is a hydroelectric power plant located in France, operated by the state-owned utility EDF. With a capacity of 40 MW, it is a small-to-medium scale facility within the French hydropower sector, which is a significant component of the nation's low-carbon electricity generation. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the European Union, including the Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU) and the Water Framework Directive, which govern environmental performance and water resource management. As a hydroelectric facility, it benefits from France's long history of hydropower development, with many plants built in the mid-20th century. Gour Noir (Le) plays a role in providing renewable energy to the French grid, supporting the country's goals for carbon neutrality. Its operation by EDF, a major European utility, ensures integration into a broader network of hydro and nuclear power, contributing to grid stability and regional energy supply.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Gour Noir (Le) produces electricity with minimal direct CO2 emissions, but its environmental footprint includes potential impacts on local aquatic ecosystems and river flow regimes. The facility's location in a rural area of France may involve considerations for fish migration and sediment transport, typical for run-of-river or reservoir-based hydropower. Regulatory oversight under EU environmental directives helps manage these impacts.
Frequently asked questions
Gour Noir (Le) is located in France, with coordinates approximately 45.071 N, 2.067 E. It is operated by EDF.
Gour Noir (Le) has a capacity of 40 megawatts (MW), making it a small-to-medium scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is operated by EDF (Électricité de France), the country's main electricity generation and distribution company.
Hydroelectric plants in France must comply with EU directives, including the Industrial Emissions Directive and the Water Framework Directive, which set standards for water quality, ecological flow, and fish passage.
Hydroelectric power is a key renewable energy source in France, providing around 10-12% of total electricity generation. It complements nuclear power and helps balance the grid.