Overview
Electra is a 102.5 MW hydroelectric power plant operated by Pacific Gas & Electric Co. in California, United States. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Electra is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States, with an installed capacity of 102.5 MW. The facility is owned and operated by Pacific Gas & Electric Co., a major utility serving northern and central California. 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 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Hydroelectric plants in the U.S. typically use run-of-river or reservoir-based systems, and Electra likely utilizes the natural flow of water from nearby rivers or reservoirs to generate electricity. Electra plays a role in providing clean energy to the California grid, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Its operation supports grid stability and contributes to the state's renewable energy goals. The plant's location in a mountainous region may also provide recreational opportunities and water management benefits.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's location in California may involve seasonal variations in water availability, influencing generation capacity. Proximity to populated areas is minimal, reducing direct human impact, but the facility must manage fish passage and sediment transport to minimize ecological disruption.
Frequently asked questions
The Electra hydroelectric power plant is located in California, United States, at coordinates 38.331000, -120.669900.
The Electra hydroelectric power plant has an installed capacity of 102.5 megawatts (MW).
The Electra hydroelectric plant is owned and operated by Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PG&E), a major utility in California.
Hydroelectric plants in the U.S. are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and must comply with the Clean Water Act, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and state-level laws such as the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Hydroelectric power generation has low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter water flow, affect fish migration, and change local ecosystems. Mitigation measures like fish ladders and environmental flow releases are often required.