Overview
Laufenburg is a 104.4 MW hydroelectric power plant in Germany, operated by Energiedienst Holding AG. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Laufenburg is a hydroelectric power plant located in Laufenburg, Germany, with a capacity of 104.4 MW. The facility is owned and operated by Energiedienst Holding AG and is currently operational. As a hydroelectric plant, it contributes to Germany's renewable energy portfolio, harnessing the flow of the Rhine River to generate electricity. The plant operates under Germany's regulatory framework, which includes the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) and the European Union's Water Framework Directive. Hydroelectric plants like Laufenburg are considered a mature technology with low operational emissions. The capacity of 104.4 MW places it in the medium-to-large scale for hydroelectric facilities in Europe. Laufenburg plays a significant role in the regional power grid, providing clean, baseload electricity. Its operation supports Germany's energy transition (Energiewende) by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The plant's location on the Rhine also allows for integration with river management and flood control measures.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Laufenburg has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants. However, it may affect local aquatic ecosystems by altering water flow and fish migration. The facility is subject to EU environmental regulations, including the Water Framework Directive, which mandates measures to mitigate ecological impacts. Its location on the Rhine River, a major European waterway, requires careful management of water levels and sediment transport.
Frequently asked questions
The Laufenburg hydroelectric power plant is located in Laufenburg, Germany, on the Rhine River.
The Laufenburg hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 104.4 megawatts (MW).
The Laufenburg hydroelectric power plant is operated by Energiedienst Holding AG.
Hydroelectric plants in Germany must comply with the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) and the EU Water Framework Directive, which require environmental impact assessments and measures to protect aquatic ecosystems.
Hydroelectric power provides a reliable, low-carbon source of baseload electricity, supporting Germany's Energiewende (energy transition) by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.