Overview
Santa Maria is a 6 MW hydroelectric power plant in Guatemala. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower, contributing to the country's clean energy mix.
Santa Maria is a hydroelectric power plant located in Guatemala, with a capacity of 6 megawatts. As a small-scale hydropower facility, it plays a role in the country's renewable energy generation, leveraging Guatemala's abundant water resources for clean electricity production. The plant operates under Guatemala's national energy regulations, which promote renewable energy development. Hydroelectric plants like Santa Maria typically use run-of-river or reservoir-based technology to convert water flow into electricity, with minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. Santa Maria's electricity supports local communities and contributes to Guatemala's grid stability. By utilizing hydropower, the facility helps reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and supports the country's goals for sustainable energy development.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Santa Maria has a low carbon footprint, but its environmental impact depends on local hydrology and ecosystem. The facility may affect river flow regimes and aquatic habitats, though small-scale hydropower often has less ecological disruption than large dams. Typical hydro plants in Guatemala are located in rural, mountainous regions.
Frequently asked questions
Santa Maria hydroelectric power plant is located in Guatemala, with coordinates approximately 14.72° N, -91.523° W.
Santa Maria has a capacity of 6 megawatts, making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Santa Maria is a hydroelectric power plant, generating electricity from the flow of water.
Hydroelectric plants in Guatemala are regulated under national energy laws and environmental impact assessments, promoting renewable energy and sustainable water use.
Santa Maria contributes renewable electricity to Guatemala's grid, helping diversify the energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.