Overview
Chester Diversion Hydroelectric Project is an operational hydroelectric power plant in the United States, owned by Fall River Rural Elec Coop Inc. It has a capacity of 3.6 MW, serving local energy needs.
Chester Diversion Hydroelectric Project is a small-scale hydroelectric facility located in the United States, specifically in the state of Idaho. Owned and operated by Fall River Rural Elec Coop Inc, the plant has an installed capacity of 3.6 megawatts, placing it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric power generation. The facility is operational and contributes to the regional energy grid. As a run-of-river hydroelectric project, the Chester Diversion Hydroelectric Project utilizes the natural flow of water from a diversion structure to generate electricity without significant water storage. This technology is typical for small hydro plants in the region, which often operate under licenses from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The plant's capacity factor and efficiency are influenced by seasonal water availability and regulatory requirements for environmental flows. The Chester Diversion Hydroelectric Project plays a role in supporting renewable energy generation in the area, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. It provides clean electricity to the local community, contributing to the energy mix of the Pacific Northwest. The facility's small scale minimizes environmental impact, and it operates under standard environmental regulations for hydroelectric projects in the United States.
Environmental context
The Chester Diversion Hydroelectric Project is located in a region with significant water resources, where hydroelectric power generation can affect local aquatic ecosystems. The diversion structure may alter stream flow patterns, impacting fish migration and habitat. However, as a small-scale facility, its environmental footprint is relatively limited. The plant operates under regulatory frameworks that require measures to mitigate ecological effects, such as fish passage provisions and minimum flow requirements.
Frequently asked questions
The Chester Diversion Hydroelectric Project is located in the United States, specifically in the state of Idaho, near the coordinates 44.0183° N, -111.5836° W.
The Chester Diversion Hydroelectric Project has a generating capacity of 3.6 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The Chester Diversion Hydroelectric Project is owned by Fall River Rural Elec Coop Inc, a cooperative that provides electricity to rural areas in Idaho.
Hydroelectric projects in the United States are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under the Federal Power Act. They must obtain licenses that include conditions for environmental protection, such as fish passage and water quality standards.
As a small run-of-river hydro project, the Chester Diversion Hydroelectric Project has a limited environmental impact. It may affect local stream flows and aquatic habitats, but it operates under regulatory requirements to mitigate these effects, such as maintaining minimum flows and providing fish passage if needed.