Overview
Folsom is a 198.6 MW hydroelectric power plant in California, USA, operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. It provides renewable energy to the regional grid.
Folsom is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States, with a generating capacity of 198.6 MW. The facility is owned and operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and is classified as a medium-scale hydroelectric installation within the U.S. power generation sector. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and complies with environmental standards set by the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). As a hydroelectric facility, it uses water flow from the American River to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal air emissions. Folsom plays a key role in California's renewable energy portfolio, contributing to grid stability and supporting the state's clean energy goals. Its operation aligns with regional water management and flood control efforts, providing both power and water resource benefits to the surrounding community.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Folsom produces electricity without direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, offering a low-carbon energy source. However, its operation can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes in the American River. The facility's location in California, a state with stringent environmental regulations, ensures compliance with water quality and habitat protection standards.
Frequently asked questions
Folsom is located in California, United States, near the American River. Its coordinates are 38.7067 N, -121.1584 W.
The Folsom hydroelectric plant has a generating capacity of 198.6 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale hydroelectric facility.
The Folsom power plant is owned and operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Hydroelectric plants in the U.S. are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and by the Clean Water Act for water quality. They must also comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for environmental impact assessments.
Hydroelectric power generation produces no direct air emissions, but it can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change water flow patterns. Proper siting and mitigation measures are required to minimize ecological impacts.