Overview
Eltopia Branch Canal 4.6 is a 2.2 MW hydroelectric power plant in Washington State, USA, operated by Columbia Basin Hydropower. It generates renewable electricity from canal water flow.
Eltopia Branch Canal 4.6 is a hydroelectric power plant located in Washington State, United States, with a capacity of 2.2 MW. The facility is owned by Columbia Basin Hydropower and is currently operational, contributing to the region's renewable energy portfolio. As a small-scale hydroelectric plant, it 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 National Environmental Policy Act. The plant utilizes canal water flow to generate electricity, a technology common in irrigation districts. The facility plays a role in local grid stability and supports the state's renewable energy goals. Its operation aligns with Washington's commitment to clean energy, providing low-carbon power to the surrounding community.
Environmental context
The plant's hydroelectric generation produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, offering a low-carbon energy source. Its location in an agricultural region with canal infrastructure minimizes additional land use impacts. However, small hydro projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems through flow alterations and fish passage considerations.
Frequently asked questions
Eltopia Branch Canal 4.6 is located in Washington State, USA, near the city of Eltopia. Its coordinates are 46.3784 N, -119.2545 W.
It is a hydroelectric power plant that generates electricity using water flow from a canal. It has a capacity of 2.2 MW.
The plant is owned by Columbia Basin Hydropower.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and safety, and must comply with the Clean Water Act and National Environmental Policy Act for environmental impacts.
As a hydroelectric plant, it generates electricity without direct emissions, supporting Washington State's renewable energy goals and providing clean power to the local grid.