Butt Valley Hydroelectric Power Plant, California | Renewable Energy Facility

Butt Valley is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States, with a generating capacity of 40 MW. The facility is owned and operated by Pacific Gas & Electric Co., a major utility serving Northern California. As a hydroelectric plant, it contributes to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing for hydropower projects. Hydroelectric plants like Butt Valley typically use water flow from rivers or reservoirs to generate electricity, with minimal direct emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. The 40 MW capacity places it in the small-to-medium scale for hydroelectric facilities. Butt Valley plays a role in providing clean, renewable energy to the grid, supporting California's goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Its operation by a major utility ensures integration into the broader power system, serving residential and commercial customers in the region.

As a hydroelectric plant, Butt Valley produces electricity without direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, offering environmental benefits over fossil fuel generation. However, hydroelectric projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's location in California, a state with stringent environmental regulations, requires compliance with water quality and wildlife protection standards. The 40 MW capacity indicates a relatively modest footprint, potentially reducing ecological impact compared to larger dams.