Overview
Fernando Hiriart Balderrama (Zimapán) is a 292 MW hydroelectric power plant in Mexico, operated by CFE. It provides renewable energy to the national grid.
Fernando Hiriart Balderrama (Zimapán) is a hydroelectric power plant located in Mexico, with a capacity of 292 MW. It is owned and operated by the Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), the state-owned utility. The plant plays a key role in Mexico's renewable energy portfolio, contributing to the country's hydroelectric generation capacity. As a hydroelectric facility, it operates without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal emissions of CO2, SOx, and NOx compared to fossil fuel plants. The technology relies on water flow from the Zimapán Dam, and its capacity places it in the medium-to-large scale for hydroelectric plants in Mexico. Regulatory oversight includes Mexican environmental standards and water usage permits. The plant supports grid stability and provides clean energy to the region. Its operation aligns with Mexico's goals for renewable energy expansion and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The facility's location in a mountainous area also influences local water management and ecosystem dynamics.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Fernando Hiriart Balderrama has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through altered water flow and reservoir management. The facility's location in a semi-arid region of Mexico means water availability is a key environmental factor. Proximity to populated areas is limited, reducing direct exposure to communities. The plant's age and technology are typical for Mexican hydroelectric projects, with ongoing maintenance to ensure efficiency and environmental compliance.
Frequently asked questions
The plant is located in Mexico, near the Zimapán Dam in the state of Hidalgo, at coordinates 20.8468 N, -99.4584 W.
The plant has a capacity of 292 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-to-large hydroelectric facility in Mexico.
The plant is owned and operated by the Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), Mexico's state-owned electric utility.
Hydroelectric plants in Mexico must comply with the General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection (LGEEPA) and water usage permits from CONAGUA. They also follow national renewable energy standards.
Hydroelectric plants produce low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change water quality. Reservoir creation may also lead to land use changes.