Overview
Big Creek 4 is a 100 MW hydroelectric power plant in California, operated by Southern California Edison Co. It is part of the Big Creek hydroelectric project, a major renewable energy source for the region.
Big Creek 4 is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States, with a generating capacity of 100 MW. Owned and operated by Southern California Edison Co, the facility is part of the larger Big Creek hydroelectric system, which has been a cornerstone of renewable energy generation in the state for decades. The plant utilizes hydroelectric technology, converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity. As a run-of-river or reservoir-based facility, it operates with minimal fuel costs and low emissions. The Big Creek project benefits from California's mountainous terrain and abundant water resources, which provide reliable hydroelectric generation. Environmentally, Big Creek 4 contributes to California's renewable energy portfolio, helping reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The facility supports grid stability and provides clean electricity to communities in Southern California. Its operation aligns with state and federal renewable energy targets, underscoring the importance of hydropower in the region's energy mix.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power plants like Big Creek 4 have a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through changes in water flow and temperature. The facility is located in a mountainous region of California, where water resources are critical for both power generation and ecological health. Operations are regulated under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license requirements, which mandate environmental mitigation measures.
Frequently asked questions
Big Creek 4 is located in California, United States, at coordinates 37.139000, -119.489800.
Big Creek 4 has a generating capacity of 100 megawatts (MW).
Big Creek 4 is owned and operated by Southern California Edison Co.
Big Creek 4 is a hydroelectric power plant, using water flow to generate electricity.
Hydroelectric plants in the United States are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under the Federal Power Act, which includes requirements for environmental impact assessments and mitigation measures.