Overview
Wendefurth is a 79.7 MW hydroelectric power plant in Germany, operated by Vattenfall Europe Generation AG. It contributes to the country's renewable energy mix.
Wendefurth is a hydroelectric power plant located in Germany, with an installed capacity of 79.7 MW. The facility is owned and operated by Vattenfall Europe Generation AG, a major European energy company. As a hydroelectric plant, it plays a role in Germany's transition to renewable energy sources. The plant operates under Germany's renewable energy regulatory framework, including the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), which supports hydroelectric power generation. Hydroelectric plants like Wendefurth typically use run-of-river or reservoir-based technology to convert water flow into electricity. The 79.7 MW capacity places it in the medium-scale range for hydroelectric facilities in Germany. Wendefurth's operational status is active, contributing to the regional grid stability and supporting Germany's climate goals by providing low-carbon electricity. The plant's location in the Harz region benefits from local water resources, and its operation aligns with EU environmental directives for renewable energy promotion.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but it can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The Wendefurth plant, located in the Harz region, operates in an area with significant forest cover and biodiversity. Its reservoir and water management practices are subject to German water law and EU Water Framework Directive requirements to minimize ecological impacts.
Frequently asked questions
Wendefurth is located in Germany, in the Harz region, at coordinates 51.7422° N, 10.9188° E.
The Wendefurth hydroelectric plant has an installed capacity of 79.7 megawatts (MW).
The plant is owned and operated by Vattenfall Europe Generation AG, a major European energy company.
Hydroelectric plants in Germany operate under the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), which provides support for renewable energy, and must comply with EU Water Framework Directive and German water laws.
Hydroelectric power has low carbon emissions but can affect aquatic ecosystems and water flow. Plants must implement measures to minimize ecological impacts, such as fish passage and flow management.