Ellis Hydro - Hydroelectric Power Plant in Arkansas, United States

Ellis Hydro is a hydroelectric power plant located in Arkansas, United States, with an operational capacity of 32.4 megawatts. The facility is owned and operated by Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation, a member-owned utility serving rural and suburban communities across the state. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses the energy of flowing water to generate electricity, contributing to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the Clean Air Act and state-level environmental regulations. Hydroelectric power is a low-emission energy source, and facilities like Ellis Hydro help reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The plant's capacity places it in the small-to-medium scale range for hydroelectric generation in the U.S., typical for run-of-river or small impoundment projects. Ellis Hydro plays a role in supporting grid stability and providing clean energy to Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation's member communities. Its operation aligns with broader trends in the U.S. energy sector toward diversifying generation sources and increasing renewable energy capacity. The plant's location in Arkansas, a state with significant hydropower potential, underscores its contribution to local energy independence.

As a hydroelectric facility, Ellis Hydro produces electricity with minimal direct air emissions, avoiding the CO2, SOx, and NOx associated with fossil fuel plants. However, hydroelectric projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's capacity of 32.4 MW suggests a relatively modest environmental footprint compared to large-scale dams. Its operation in Arkansas, a region with ample water resources, supports renewable energy generation while requiring careful management of downstream water quality and habitat.