Overview
Granite is a 2 MW hydroelectric power plant in Utah, United States, operated by PacifiCorp. It generates renewable electricity using hydropower.
Granite is a hydroelectric power plant located in Utah, United States, with an operational capacity of 2 MW. The facility is owned and operated by PacifiCorp, a major utility in the western US. As a small-scale hydroelectric plant, it contributes to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for hydropower licensing and the Clean Water Act for water quality. Hydroelectric plants like Granite typically use run-of-river or impoundment technology to convert water flow into electricity. The 2 MW capacity places it in the small-scale category, often serving local grid needs. Granite's environmental significance lies in its low-carbon electricity generation, displacing fossil fuel-based power. Its operation in Utah supports grid stability and renewable energy goals. The plant's location in the Wasatch Range area provides consistent water flow for generation.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The Granite plant's small capacity minimizes its environmental impact. Its operation in Utah's mountainous region relies on snowmelt and precipitation, making it sensitive to climate variability. The facility adheres to FERC environmental requirements for fish passage and water quality.
Frequently asked questions
The Granite hydroelectric power plant is located in Utah, United States, near coordinates 40.6192 N, -111.7821 W.
The Granite power plant has a capacity of 2 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The Granite hydroelectric plant is owned and operated by PacifiCorp, a major utility serving the western United States.
Hydroelectric plants in the United States are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and by the Clean Water Act for water quality and environmental protection.
Hydroelectric power generation produces low carbon emissions but can affect aquatic ecosystems, water flow, and fish migration. Small-scale plants like Granite typically have reduced environmental impacts.