Overview
Cedar Falls (WA) is a 30 MW hydroelectric power plant operated by the City of Seattle in Washington, USA. It provides renewable energy to the region.
Cedar Falls (WA) is a hydroelectric power plant located in Washington, United States, with a generating capacity of 30 megawatts. The facility is owned and operated by the City of Seattle, contributing to the local power grid with renewable energy from hydropower. As a hydroelectric facility, Cedar Falls operates without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal air emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. The plant's technology is typical for run-of-river or reservoir-based hydro projects, which are common in the Pacific Northwest due to abundant water resources. Regulatory oversight includes compliance with the US Clean Water Act and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing requirements. The plant plays a role in Seattle's renewable energy portfolio, supporting the city's goals for carbon-free electricity. Its location in a forested area near the Cedar River watershed underscores the importance of balancing energy generation with environmental stewardship. The facility's capacity places it in the small-to-medium scale for hydroelectric plants in the US.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation like Cedar Falls has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through altered water flows and fish passage. The facility is situated in a region with significant rainfall and mountainous terrain, which supports consistent hydropower output. Proximity to the Cedar River watershed requires careful management to protect water quality and habitat for species such as salmon.
Frequently asked questions
Cedar Falls (WA) is located in Washington state, USA, near the Cedar River watershed, approximately 30 miles east of Seattle.
Cedar Falls has a generating capacity of 30 megawatts, making it a small-to-medium scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned and operated by the City of Seattle, which manages the facility as part of its municipal power supply.
Hydroelectric plants in the US must comply with FERC licensing, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act, including measures for fish passage and water quality.
Hydroelectric power has low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change sediment transport. Proper management mitigates these impacts.