Overview
Dion R Holm is a 156.8 MW hydroelectric power plant in California, United States, operated by the City & County of San Francisco. It provides renewable energy to the regional grid.
Dion R Holm is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States, with an operational capacity of 156.8 MW. Owned and operated by the City & County of San Francisco, the facility is part of the region's renewable energy infrastructure. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses water flow to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the Clean Air Act and state-level renewable portfolio standards. Hydroelectric facilities like Dion R Holm are considered low-emission sources, contributing to grid decarbonization. The technology typically involves turbines driven by water from reservoirs or run-of-river systems. Dion R Holm plays a role in meeting San Francisco's energy needs with renewable power. Its capacity of 156.8 MW places it in the medium-to-large scale for hydroelectric plants. The facility supports grid stability and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with California's clean energy goals.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through altered water flow and habitat disruption. The plant's location in California involves considerations for water availability and drought cycles. Proximity to populated areas is minimal, reducing direct human exposure to operational impacts.
Frequently asked questions
The Dion R Holm hydroelectric power plant is located in California, United States, at coordinates 37.8966 N, -119.9675 W.
The Dion R Holm plant has an installed capacity of 156.8 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-to-large hydroelectric facility.
The Dion R Holm plant is owned and operated by the City & County of San Francisco.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and by the Clean Air Act for emissions. State-level renewable portfolio standards also influence operations.
Hydroelectric power produces low greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, supports renewable energy targets, and provides grid stability. However, it can impact aquatic ecosystems and water flow.