Overview
Barkley is a 130 MW hydroelectric power plant in the United States, operated by the USCE-Nashville District. It provides renewable energy to the regional grid.
Barkley is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, with a capacity of 130 MW. The facility is operated by the USCE-Nashville District and is currently operational, contributing to the country's renewable energy portfolio. As a hydroelectric facility, Barkley utilizes the flow of water to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in low emissions of CO2, SOx, and NOx. The plant's capacity of 130 MW places it in the medium-scale range for hydroelectric power in the United States. The regulatory framework for such facilities includes Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing and environmental compliance under the Clean Water Act. The plant plays a significant role in providing clean, renewable energy to the surrounding region, supporting grid stability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Its operation aligns with broader environmental goals for sustainable power generation.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation like Barkley has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but can impact local aquatic ecosystems through altered water flow and fish passage. The facility's location in the United States subjects it to environmental regulations under the Clean Water Act and FERC licensing conditions, which typically include measures to mitigate ecological effects.
Frequently asked questions
Barkley hydroelectric plant is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 37.0217 N, -88.2211 W.
Barkley power plant has a capacity of 130 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale hydroelectric facility.
Barkley hydroelectric plant is operated by the USCE-Nashville District, a division of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Hydroelectric plants in the US must comply with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing, the Clean Water Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which address water quality, fish passage, and ecosystem impacts.
Hydroelectric power generation produces low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change water flow patterns. Mitigation measures like fish ladders and minimum flow requirements are often implemented.