Overview
San Esteban II Grupo 1 is a 438.45 MW hydroelectric power plant in Spain, owned by Iberdrola Generacion S.A. and currently operational.
San Esteban II Grupo 1 is a hydroelectric power plant located in Spain, with a capacity of 438.45 MW. The facility is owned by Iberdrola Generacion S.A., a major energy company, and is currently operational. This plant contributes to Spain's renewable energy portfolio, leveraging hydropower to generate electricity. Hydroelectric plants like San Esteban II Grupo 1 operate by converting the energy of flowing water into electricity. The plant's capacity places it in the medium-to-large scale for hydroelectric facilities in Spain. Spain has a diverse energy mix, with hydropower playing a significant role alongside wind and solar. The plant is subject to EU environmental regulations, including the Industrial Emissions Directive and the Water Framework Directive, which govern water use and emissions. The facility supports grid stability and provides renewable energy to the region. Its operation aligns with Spain's goals for increasing renewable energy share and reducing carbon emissions. The plant's location near water resources ensures reliable generation, contributing to local energy security and sustainability.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, San Esteban II Grupo 1 has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but it can affect local aquatic ecosystems through changes in water flow and habitat disruption. The facility's location in Spain means it operates under EU environmental standards, including the Water Framework Directive, which aims to protect water quality and ecosystems. The plant's capacity of 438.45 MW suggests a significant water diversion, which may impact river ecology downstream.
Frequently asked questions
San Esteban II Grupo 1 is a hydroelectric power plant located in Spain, with coordinates approximately 42.4143 N, -7.6533 W.
The plant has a capacity of 438.45 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-to-large hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned by Iberdrola Generacion S.A., a leading Spanish energy company.
Hydroelectric plants in Spain must comply with EU directives such as the Industrial Emissions Directive and the Water Framework Directive, which regulate water use, emissions, and ecological impact.
Hydroelectric power has low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter aquatic habitats, affect fish migration, and change water flow patterns. Proper management and mitigation measures are required to minimize ecological disruption.