Cheoah Hydroelectric Power Plant | 140 MW Renewable Energy Facility

Cheoah is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, with a capacity of 140 megawatts (MW). It is owned and operated by Brookfield Smoky Mountain Hydropower LP, a major player in the hydropower sector. The plant is currently operational and contributes to the country's renewable energy mix. As a hydroelectric facility, Cheoah uses the natural flow of water to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal air emissions. The plant's capacity places it in the medium-to-large scale for hydropower in the U.S. It operates under federal and state regulations, including the Clean Water Act and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing requirements, which ensure environmental protection and sustainable operations. The plant plays a significant role in local and regional power supply, providing clean, baseload renewable energy. Its operation supports grid stability and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. The surrounding ecosystem benefits from the plant's adherence to environmental standards, including fish passage and water quality management.

As a hydroelectric plant, Cheoah has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but its operations can affect local aquatic ecosystems. The facility is located in a mountainous region, where water flow management is critical for maintaining downstream habitats. Regulatory oversight under the Clean Water Act and FERC ensures that environmental impacts are minimized through measures like minimum flow requirements and fish passage systems.