Overview
Dardanelle is a 160.8 MW hydroelectric power plant in Arkansas, USA, operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. It provides renewable energy to the regional grid.
Dardanelle is a hydroelectric power plant located in Arkansas, United States, with a capacity of 160.8 MW. It is owned and operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers (Little Rock District) and is currently operational. The plant harnesses the flow of the Arkansas River to generate electricity, contributing to the region's renewable energy portfolio. As a hydroelectric facility, Dardanelle operates without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal air emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. The plant's technology relies on turbines driven by water flow, a mature and reliable renewable energy source. In the US, hydroelectric plants are subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing and environmental regulations, including the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The plant plays a key role in the local power grid, providing clean, baseload electricity and supporting grid stability. Its operation by the US Army Corps of Engineers also aligns with flood control and water management objectives in the Arkansas River basin. Dardanelle's capacity places it in the medium-to-large scale for hydroelectric plants in the US.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation like Dardanelle produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, offering a low-carbon energy source. However, the reservoir and dam can alter local aquatic ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change sediment transport. The plant's location on the Arkansas River may influence water quality and flow regimes downstream. Proximity to populated areas is moderate, with the nearest city being Russellville, Arkansas, about 10 miles away.
Frequently asked questions
Dardanelle is located on the Arkansas River in Arkansas, United States, near the city of Russellville.
The Dardanelle hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 160.8 megawatts (MW).
The plant is owned and operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Little Rock District.
Hydroelectric plants in the USA are regulated under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing, the Clean Water Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which require environmental impact assessments and mitigation measures.
Hydroelectric power produces no direct air emissions, but dams and reservoirs can alter aquatic habitats, affect fish migration, and change sediment transport. Proper management and mitigation measures are required to minimize ecological impacts.