Overview
Detzem is a 24 MW hydroelectric power plant in Germany, operated by RWE Innogy GmbH. It contributes to the country's renewable energy grid with clean hydropower generation.
Detzem is a hydroelectric power plant located in Germany, with a capacity of 24 MW. It is owned and operated by RWE Innogy GmbH, a major German energy company. The plant is operational and plays a role in the region's renewable energy infrastructure. As a hydroelectric facility, Detzem uses the flow of water to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in low emissions. Germany's energy transition (Energiewende) emphasizes renewable sources like hydropower, and plants like Detzem support grid stability and carbon reduction goals. The plant's capacity is modest compared to large-scale hydro projects, but it contributes to local and regional power supply. The environmental significance of Detzem lies in its renewable energy production, which displaces fossil fuel-based generation. Hydropower plants have minimal air emissions but can affect local aquatic ecosystems. Detzem's operation aligns with EU renewable energy targets and Germany's commitment to phasing out coal and nuclear power.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can impact river ecosystems through altered water flow and fish migration. Detzem's location on a river in Germany means it operates under strict EU environmental regulations, including the Water Framework Directive. The plant's small capacity reduces its ecological footprint compared to larger dams, but local aquatic habitats may still be affected by water level changes and turbine operations.
Frequently asked questions
Detzem is located in Germany, near the Moselle River. The exact coordinates are 49.8109° N, 6.8439° E.
The Detzem hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 24 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydropower facility.
The plant is owned by RWE Innogy GmbH, a German energy company. Typically the owner manages operations.
Hydroelectric plants in Germany must comply with the EU Water Framework Directive, the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), and national environmental impact assessments. These regulations ensure sustainable water use and ecosystem protection.
Detzem generates clean electricity from hydropower, supporting Germany's Energiewende goals to increase renewable energy share and reduce carbon emissions. It provides baseload renewable power to the grid.