Overview
El Dorado Hydro Elk Creek is a 2.6 MW hydroelectric power plant in the United States, operated by Enel Green Power NA Inc. It generates renewable energy from water flow.
El Dorado Hydro Elk Creek is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, with coordinates 45.2178° N, -116.3158° W. The facility has a generating capacity of 2.6 MW and is owned and operated by Enel Green Power NA Inc. As a small-scale hydroelectric plant, it contributes to the renewable energy mix in the region. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the Clean Water Act and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing for hydropower projects. Hydroelectric plants like this one typically use run-of-river or impoundment technologies to convert kinetic energy from flowing water into electricity. The 2.6 MW capacity places it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric generation. El Dorado Hydro Elk Creek provides clean, renewable electricity to the local grid, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Its operation supports regional energy independence and environmental goals by generating power without direct CO2 emissions. The plant's location in a rural area minimizes impacts on densely populated communities.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, El Dorado Hydro Elk Creek produces electricity without direct air emissions, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. However, hydroelectric projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The 2.6 MW capacity suggests a relatively small footprint, potentially reducing ecological disruption. The plant's location in a mountainous region may involve considerations for fish passage and sediment management.
Frequently asked questions
El Dorado Hydro Elk Creek is located in the United States at coordinates 45.2178° N, -116.3158° W.
The plant has a generating capacity of 2.6 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned and operated by Enel Green Power NA Inc., a subsidiary of the global renewable energy company Enel.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and by the Clean Water Act for water quality and environmental impacts.
Hydroelectric power produces no direct air emissions, but can affect aquatic ecosystems, water flow, and fish migration. Small-scale plants like this one typically have lower environmental impacts than large dams.