Overview
Matte is a 1.16 MW hydroelectric power plant located in Switzerland. It operates as a run-of-river facility contributing to the country's renewable energy grid.
Matte is a hydroelectric power plant situated in Switzerland, with coordinates 46.9481° N, 7.4474° E. The facility has a capacity of 1.16 MW, classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric plant within the Swiss power generation sector. It is currently operational and utilizes water flow to generate electricity. Switzerland's hydroelectric sector is governed by strict environmental regulations, including the Swiss Federal Act on the Protection of Waters and the Energy Act, which promote renewable energy and sustainable water use. Small-scale hydro plants like Matte often operate under simplified licensing procedures but must comply with ecological flow requirements to protect aquatic habitats. The plant contributes to Switzerland's renewable energy mix, supporting the country's goal of phasing out nuclear power and increasing hydroelectric generation. Its small capacity suggests it serves local or regional grid needs, providing clean electricity with minimal carbon footprint.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation in Switzerland relies on alpine water resources, with environmental considerations including fish migration, sediment transport, and flow regime alterations. Matte's small scale likely minimizes ecological disruption, but it must adhere to Swiss water protection laws that mandate minimum residual flows and fish passage measures. The plant's operation supports Switzerland's renewable energy targets while balancing local ecosystem health.
Frequently asked questions
Matte is located in Switzerland at coordinates 46.9481° N, 7.4474° E.
Matte has a capacity of 1.16 MW, making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Matte is a hydroelectric power plant, likely a run-of-river type given its small capacity, which uses flowing water to generate electricity without significant storage.
Hydroelectric plants in Switzerland must comply with the Federal Act on the Protection of Waters, which sets ecological flow requirements, and the Energy Act, which promotes renewable energy. Small plants may have simplified permitting but must still meet environmental standards.
Matte supports Switzerland's transition to renewable energy by generating clean electricity from hydropower, helping to reduce reliance on nuclear and fossil fuels.