Overview
Fall Creek is a 2.1 MW hydroelectric power plant in the United States, operated by PacifiCorp. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Fall Creek is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, with an operational capacity of 2.1 megawatts. The facility is owned by PacifiCorp, a major utility serving the western U.S., and is currently operational. As a small-scale hydro plant, it contributes to the region's renewable energy mix. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which oversees hydroelectric projects. Hydropower is a mature technology that relies on water flow to generate electricity, with low direct emissions. The 2.1 MW capacity places it in the small-scale category, typical for run-of-river or small dam installations. Fall Creek's environmental significance lies in its renewable energy generation, displacing fossil fuel-based power. Its small capacity means a modest but positive impact on local grid decarbonization. The plant's location in a rural area likely minimizes community exposure to any operational impacts.
Environmental context
Hydropower plants like Fall Creek have low greenhouse gas emissions during operation but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through water flow alterations. The 2.1 MW capacity suggests a small-scale installation, which typically has a reduced environmental footprint compared to large dams. In the U.S., hydro projects must comply with FERC licensing requirements that include environmental mitigation measures.
Frequently asked questions
Fall Creek is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 41.9856° N, -122.3605° W.
Fall Creek has a generating capacity of 2.1 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Fall Creek is owned by PacifiCorp, a utility company serving customers in the western United States.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which issues licenses for non-federal projects and ensures compliance with environmental and safety standards.
Hydropower generates electricity from flowing water, producing no direct CO2 emissions during operation. It provides reliable, dispatchable renewable energy, complementing intermittent sources like solar and wind.