Overview
Manuel Moreno Torres (Chicoasén) is a 2,400 MW hydroelectric power plant in Chiapas, Mexico, operated by CFE. It is one of the largest hydroelectric facilities in the country, providing renewable energy to the national grid.
Manuel Moreno Torres, also known as Chicoasén, is a major hydroelectric power plant located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. With a capacity of 2,400 MW, it ranks among the largest hydroelectric facilities in Mexico and Latin America. The plant is owned and operated by the Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), the state-owned electric utility, and plays a critical role in supplying renewable energy to the national power system. The plant utilizes the hydraulic potential of the Grijalva River, harnessing water from the Manuel Moreno Torres Dam. As a hydroelectric facility, it operates with zero direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. The technology involves conventional turbine-generator units that convert the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity. Given its large capacity, the plant is a cornerstone of Mexico's clean energy infrastructure. Environmentally, the plant contributes to reducing Mexico's carbon footprint by displacing fossil fuel-based generation. However, large hydroelectric projects can have ecological and social impacts, including alterations to river ecosystems and displacement of communities. The facility's operation is subject to Mexican environmental regulations, including the General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection. Its strategic importance lies in providing baseload renewable power, supporting grid stability, and reducing dependence on thermal power plants.
Environmental context
The plant's hydroelectric nature means it produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, offering significant air quality benefits compared to thermal plants. However, the reservoir can affect local aquatic habitats and sediment transport. Located in a region with high rainfall and biodiversity, the facility must balance power generation with ecosystem preservation. Mexican environmental laws require environmental impact assessments and ongoing monitoring to mitigate adverse effects on water quality and wildlife.
Frequently asked questions
The Manuel Moreno Torres plant, also known as Chicoasén, is located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico, on the Grijalva River.
The plant has an installed capacity of 2,400 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest hydroelectric facilities 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, which requires environmental impact assessments, water usage permits, and ongoing monitoring of ecological effects.
Hydroelectric power generates electricity without burning fossil fuels, resulting in negligible direct emissions of CO2, SOx, and NOx, thus contributing to improved air quality and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.