Overview
Crystal is a 28 MW hydroelectric power plant in Colorado, United States, operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Crystal is a hydroelectric power plant located in Colorado, United States, with a capacity of 28 MW. The facility is owned and operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, a federal agency responsible for water and power management in the western United States. As a hydroelectric plant, it contributes to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant 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). Hydropower facilities like Crystal typically use run-of-river or reservoir-based systems to convert water flow into electricity, with minimal direct emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. Crystal's location in Colorado supports the state's growing demand for clean energy. The plant provides reliable baseload power to the local grid, helping to reduce reliance on coal and natural gas. Its operation aligns with regional goals for renewable energy integration and water resource management.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Crystal has a low carbon footprint but may affect local aquatic ecosystems through altered water flows and fish passage. The facility is situated in a mountainous region of Colorado, where water resources are critical for both energy generation and ecological health. Regulatory requirements under the Clean Water Act and state water rights ensure that operations balance power production with environmental stewardship.
Frequently asked questions
Crystal is located in Colorado, United States, at coordinates 38.5106° N, -107.6253° W.
The Crystal hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 28 megawatts (MW).
The Crystal hydroelectric power plant is owned and operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.
Hydroelectric plants in the United States are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
Hydroelectric power is a renewable energy source with low greenhouse gas emissions. It provides reliable baseload electricity and helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels, though it can impact aquatic ecosystems.