Overview
Erzhausen is a 220 MW hydroelectric power plant in Germany, operated by Statkraft Markets GmbH. It contributes to the country's renewable energy capacity.
Erzhausen is a hydroelectric power plant located in Germany, with an operational capacity of 220 megawatts. Owned by Statkraft Markets GmbH, the facility plays a role in the country's renewable energy generation mix. Hydroelectric plants like Erzhausen harness the energy of flowing water to produce electricity, offering a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuel-based generation. Germany has a strong regulatory framework for renewable energy, including the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), which supports hydroelectric power. The plant's capacity of 220 MW places it in the medium-to-large scale for hydroelectric facilities in Europe. Modern hydroelectric plants typically employ turbines and generators optimized for efficiency and environmental compatibility. Erzhausen contributes to Germany's energy transition (Energiewende) by providing clean, dispatchable power. Its operation supports grid stability and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. The facility's location in Lower Saxony benefits from regional water resources, and its output helps meet local and national renewable energy targets.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but it can affect local aquatic ecosystems. The Erzhausen plant's operation involves managing water flow and fish passage to minimize ecological impact. Germany's strict environmental regulations, including the Water Resources Act (WHG), ensure that hydroelectric facilities comply with standards for water quality and biodiversity.
Frequently asked questions
Erzhausen is located in Germany, with coordinates approximately 51.8991 N, 9.9245 E.
The Erzhausen hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 220 megawatts (MW).
The plant is owned by Statkraft Markets GmbH, a subsidiary of the Norwegian state-owned energy company Statkraft.
Hydroelectric plants in Germany must comply with the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) and the Water Resources Act (WHG), which set standards for environmental protection and grid integration.
Hydroelectric power provides a reliable, low-carbon energy source that supports Germany's Energiewende (energy transition) by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing grid stability.