Overview
Vale de Madeira is a 1.35 MW hydroelectric power plant located in Portugal. It contributes to the country's renewable energy portfolio with small-scale hydropower generation.
Vale de Madeira is a hydroelectric power plant situated in Portugal, with coordinates 40.7981° N, -7.0148° W. The facility has an installed capacity of 1.35 MW, placing it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric generation. It is currently operational, supporting Portugal's energy grid with renewable power. As a hydroelectric plant, Vale de Madeira operates by converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity. The plant's capacity of 1.35 MW indicates it is a run-of-river or small dam facility, typical for local or community-scale power supply. Portugal has a strong regulatory framework for renewable energy, aligned with EU directives, including the Industrial Emissions Directive and Best Available Techniques for hydropower operations. The plant's environmental impact is relatively low due to its small size and renewable fuel source. Hydroelectric plants like Vale de Madeira provide clean energy with minimal greenhouse gas emissions, though they can affect local aquatic ecosystems. The facility plays a role in Portugal's transition to a low-carbon economy, contributing to energy independence and sustainability goals.
Environmental context
The plant's small capacity and hydroelectric fuel type result in a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants. However, hydropower operations can alter river flow and affect aquatic habitats. The facility's location in Portugal, a country with significant hydropower resources, means it operates under EU environmental standards that require environmental impact assessments and mitigation measures for water use and biodiversity.
Frequently asked questions
Vale de Madeira is located in Portugal at coordinates 40.7981° N, -7.0148° W.
Vale de Madeira is a hydroelectric power plant, generating electricity from flowing water.
The plant has an installed capacity of 1.35 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Hydroelectric plants in Portugal must comply with EU directives such as the Industrial Emissions Directive and national water management laws, including environmental impact assessments and operational permits.
As a renewable energy source, Vale de Madeira supports Portugal's goal of increasing clean energy generation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and meeting EU climate targets.