Overview
Bypass is a 9.9 MW hydroelectric power plant in the United States, operated by North Side Energy Company. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Bypass is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, with coordinates 42.5609° N, -114.0575° W. It has a capacity of 9.9 MW, placing it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric facilities. The plant is owned by North Side Energy Company and is currently operational. As a hydroelectric facility, Bypass uses the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity. In the United States, hydroelectric plants are regulated under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing process, which includes environmental impact assessments and compliance with the Clean Water Act. The plant's relatively small capacity suggests it may be a run-of-river or low-head installation, which typically has a lower environmental footprint compared to large dams. The plant contributes to the local grid with renewable energy, supporting regional efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in Idaho (inferred from coordinates) places it in a region with significant hydropower resources. The facility provides clean electricity to the surrounding area, helping to meet energy demand while minimizing air pollution.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems. The 9.9 MW capacity suggests a small-scale facility, likely with minimal impoundment, reducing habitat fragmentation. In the US, such plants must comply with FERC environmental conditions and Clean Water Act Section 401 certifications to protect water quality and fish passage.
Frequently asked questions
The Bypass hydroelectric power plant is located in the United States at coordinates 42.5609° N, -114.0575° W, which is in the state of Idaho.
The Bypass hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 9.9 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The Bypass hydroelectric power plant is owned by North Side Energy Company.
Hydroelectric plants in the United States are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under the Federal Power Act. They must obtain a license or exemption, and comply with environmental requirements such as the Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act.
Small hydroelectric plants typically have a lower environmental impact than large dams. They may affect local aquatic habitats and flow regimes, but often include fish passage measures and minimum flow requirements to mitigate ecological effects.