Overview
Obermatt-Nebenzentrale is a 1.97 MW hydroelectric power plant in Switzerland. It contributes to the country's renewable energy mix, leveraging alpine water resources for clean electricity generation.
Obermatt-Nebenzentrale is a hydroelectric power plant located in Switzerland, with a capacity of 1.97 MW. The facility is operational and plays a role in the local energy grid, typical of small-scale run-of-river or storage hydropower plants common in the Swiss Alps. Switzerland's hydroelectric sector is governed by national energy regulations and the Swiss Federal Energy Act, which promotes renewable energy and water protection. The plant's small capacity suggests it may use a low-head or medium-head turbine, common in alpine streams, and operates under strict environmental permits to minimize ecological impact on river ecosystems. The plant supports Switzerland's goal of increasing renewable energy share, as outlined in the Energy Strategy 2050. Its location in a mountainous region with high precipitation ensures reliable water flow, contributing to grid stability and local energy independence.
Environmental context
The plant's hydroelectric operation has a low carbon footprint, but it may affect local aquatic habitats through altered water flow and fish migration. Swiss regulations require environmental mitigation measures such as fish ladders and minimum flow requirements. The alpine setting also means the facility is resilient to climate change impacts like glacial melt, though long-term water availability could be affected.
Frequently asked questions
Obermatt-Nebenzentrale is located in Switzerland, with coordinates 46.8702° N, 8.3744° E, likely in the canton of Nidwalden or Obwalden near Lake Lucerne.
It is a hydroelectric power plant, using water flow to generate electricity. With a capacity of 1.97 MW, it is a small-scale facility typical of alpine run-of-river or storage hydropower.
The plant has a capacity of 1.97 megawatts (MW), which is sufficient to power approximately 1,500 Swiss households annually.
Switzerland regulates hydroelectric plants under the Federal Energy Act and the Water Protection Act, requiring environmental impact assessments, minimum flow rates, and fish migration measures to balance energy production with ecological preservation.
Small hydro plants have low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter river ecosystems. Swiss regulations mandate mitigation measures such as fish ladders and sediment management to minimize ecological disruption.