Overview
Cannelton Hydroelectric Plant is an operational 87.9 MW hydroelectric facility in the United States, owned by American Mun Power-Ohio Inc. It generates renewable electricity from water flow.
The Cannelton Hydroelectric Plant is a hydroelectric power generation facility located in the United States, with coordinates 37.899700, -86.705800. It has an installed capacity of 87.9 megawatts (MW), placing it in the small-to-medium scale range for hydroelectric plants. The plant is owned by American Mun Power-Ohio Inc and is currently operational, contributing to the regional power grid with renewable energy. As a hydroelectric plant, Cannelton operates without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal air emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. The facility uses water flow to generate electricity, a technology that is well-established and reliable. In the United States, hydroelectric plants are regulated under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and environmental compliance, including measures to protect aquatic ecosystems and water quality. The plant's environmental significance lies in its role as a renewable energy source, displacing greenhouse gas emissions that would otherwise come from fossil fuel generation. Its location on a waterway supports local grid stability and provides clean power to the surrounding region. The facility's operational status ensures continued contribution to sustainable energy goals.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric plants like Cannelton have a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic habitats through water flow alterations and fish passage issues. The facility's 87.9 MW capacity indicates moderate water usage and potential downstream impacts. Typical hydro projects require careful management of water levels and sediment transport to maintain ecological balance.
Frequently asked questions
The Cannelton Hydroelectric Plant is located in the United States at coordinates 37.899700, -86.705800, likely near the Ohio River in Kentucky or Indiana.
The Cannelton Hydroelectric Plant has an installed capacity of 87.9 megawatts (MW), making it a small-to-medium scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned by American Mun Power-Ohio Inc, a municipal power agency.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing, and must comply with the Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act to protect water quality and aquatic life.
Hydroelectric power is renewable with low emissions, but can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change sediment transport. Proper management and mitigation measures are required to minimize ecological impacts.