Overview
Cherokee Dam is a 135 MW hydroelectric power plant operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority in the United States. It provides renewable energy to the Tennessee Valley region.
Cherokee Dam is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). With a capacity of 135 MW, it is a medium-scale facility within the hydroelectric sector, contributing to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The dam is situated on the Holston River in eastern Tennessee, serving as a key component of TVA's integrated power system. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with environmental standards set by the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). As a hydroelectric plant, it utilizes the natural flow of water to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal air emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. The technology involves turbines driven by water released from the reservoir, a mature and reliable method for power generation. Cherokee Dam plays a significant role in the local grid by providing baseload and peaking power, as well as supporting flood control and recreation in the area. Its operation by TVA, a federal corporation, ensures integration with a larger network of hydro, nuclear, and fossil fuel plants. The facility's environmental impact is primarily related to aquatic ecosystem changes and reservoir management, which are addressed through TVA's environmental stewardship programs.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Cherokee Dam has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but its operation affects local aquatic ecosystems through altered water flows and reservoir creation. The facility is located in a region with diverse wildlife, and TVA implements measures to mitigate impacts on fish populations and water quality. The dam's reservoir also provides recreational opportunities and flood control benefits.
Frequently asked questions
Cherokee Dam is located on the Holston River in eastern Tennessee, United States. Its coordinates are approximately 36.1682 N, -83.4977 W.
Cherokee Dam has a generating capacity of 135 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale hydroelectric facility.
Cherokee Dam is operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federally owned corporation that provides electricity to the Tennessee Valley region.
Hydroelectric plants in the United States must comply with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing requirements, the Clean Water Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). These regulations address water quality, aquatic habitat, and environmental impact assessments.
Cherokee Dam provides renewable hydroelectric power to the TVA grid, supporting both baseload and peak demand. It also offers flood control, water supply, and recreational benefits to the surrounding area.