Overview
Burton Dam is a 6 MW hydroelectric power plant in Georgia, USA, owned by Georgia Power Co. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Burton Dam is a hydroelectric power plant located in Georgia, United States, with a capacity of 6 MW. Owned by Georgia Power Co, the facility is operational and contributes to the region's renewable energy generation. As a small-scale hydro plant, it plays a role in the local power grid. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Clean Air Act and state-level environmental regulations. Hydroelectric plants like Burton Dam typically have low emissions compared to fossil fuel plants, but may involve considerations related to water flow and aquatic ecosystems. The 6 MW capacity places it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric generation. Burton Dam provides clean electricity to the surrounding area, supporting Georgia's energy mix with renewable hydropower. Its operation aligns with broader efforts to diversify power generation sources and reduce carbon footprint. The facility's location in northern Georgia leverages the region's water resources for sustainable energy production.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Burton Dam generates electricity with minimal direct air emissions, contributing positively to local air quality compared to fossil fuel plants. However, hydro operations can affect aquatic habitats and water flow regimes. The plant's small capacity (6 MW) limits its environmental footprint, and it operates under US environmental regulations that address water quality and ecosystem protection.
Frequently asked questions
Burton Dam is located in Georgia, United States, at coordinates 34.793900, -83.540600.
Burton Dam has a capacity of 6 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric plant.
Burton Dam is owned by Georgia Power Co, a major utility in the southeastern United States.
Hydroelectric plants in the US must comply with the Clean Water Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, and state-level water rights and environmental regulations. They may also be subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing requirements.
Burton Dam generates electricity from hydropower, a renewable energy source. Its 6 MW output helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and supports Georgia's renewable energy portfolio.