Overview
Matanogawa is a 1,200 MW hydroelectric power plant in Japan, operated by Chugoku. It plays a key role in the country's renewable energy mix.
Matanogawa is a large-scale hydroelectric power plant located in Japan, with an installed capacity of 1,200 megawatts (MW). Operated by Chugoku, the facility is classified as a hydroelectric power plant and is currently operational. Its location in the mountainous region of Japan supports the high head required for efficient hydroelectric generation. The plant's capacity of 1,200 MW places it among the larger hydroelectric facilities in Japan, contributing significantly to the nation's renewable energy portfolio. Japan's regulatory framework for hydroelectric power includes the Act on Promotion of New Energy and the Feed-in Tariff scheme, which incentivize renewable energy generation. The plant likely utilizes advanced turbine technology to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Matanogawa serves as a critical asset for grid stability and peak load management in the Chugoku region. By generating clean electricity, it helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and supports Japan's goals for carbon neutrality by 2050. The facility's operational status ensures continued contribution to local energy security and environmental sustainability.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Matanogawa produces electricity without direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, offering a low-carbon alternative to thermal power. However, large-scale hydro projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's location in a mountainous area may involve reservoir creation, which can alter sediment transport and fish migration patterns. Japan's strict environmental impact assessment laws require mitigation measures for such effects.
Frequently asked questions
Matanogawa is located in Japan, with coordinates approximately 35.2624 N, 133.4918 E. It is operated by Chugoku.
The Matanogawa hydroelectric plant has an installed capacity of 1,200 megawatts (MW), making it a large-scale facility in Japan's renewable energy sector.
The plant is operated by Chugoku, a major utility company in Japan.
Hydroelectric plants in Japan operate under the Act on Promotion of New Energy and the Feed-in Tariff scheme, which support renewable energy generation. Environmental impact assessments are required under the Environmental Impact Assessment Law.
Hydroelectric power is a low-carbon energy source, but large dams can alter aquatic ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change sediment transport. Japan's regulations require mitigation measures to minimize these impacts.