Overview
San Pedro 2 is a 34.36 MW hydroelectric power plant in Spain, operated by Iberdrola Generacion S.A. It contributes to the country's renewable energy capacity.
San Pedro 2 is a hydroelectric power plant located in Spain, with an installed capacity of 34.36 MW. The facility is owned and operated by Iberdrola Generacion S.A., a major player in the Spanish energy sector. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses the flow of water to generate electricity, supporting Spain's renewable energy goals. The plant operates under Spain's regulatory framework, which aligns with EU directives such as the Industrial Emissions Directive and the Water Framework Directive. Hydroelectric plants like San Pedro 2 typically use run-of-river or reservoir-based technology, with efficiency depending on water availability and seasonal flows. The 34.36 MW capacity places it in the small-to-medium scale range for hydroelectric facilities in Europe. Environmentally, hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but it can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. San Pedro 2's location in the northwestern region of Spain, near the Miño River basin, provides a consistent water source. The plant plays a role in the local grid by providing renewable baseload power and contributing to energy security.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation, such as at San Pedro 2, produces minimal direct CO2 emissions but can alter river ecosystems through changes in water flow and sediment transport. The plant's capacity of 34.36 MW indicates a moderate scale, with potential impacts on local aquatic habitats. Spain's regulatory framework under the EU Water Framework Directive requires environmental flow management to mitigate ecological effects. The facility's location in a region with ample rainfall supports sustained operation with reduced drought risk.
Frequently asked questions
San Pedro 2 is located in Spain, with coordinates 42.4171 N, -7.7498 W, likely in the northwestern region near the Miño River basin.
San Pedro 2 has an installed capacity of 34.36 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-to-medium scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned and operated by Iberdrola Generacion S.A., a leading Spanish energy company.
Hydroelectric plants in Spain must comply with EU directives including the Industrial Emissions Directive and the Water Framework Directive, which mandate environmental flow management and ecological impact assessments.
Hydroelectric power has low carbon emissions but can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change sediment transport. Proper management under EU regulations helps mitigate these impacts.