Overview
Green Springs is a 17.2 MW hydroelectric power plant operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation in Oregon. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Green Springs is a hydroelectric power plant located in Oregon, United States, with an installed capacity of 17.2 megawatts. The facility is owned and operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, a federal agency responsible for water and power management in the western United States. As a hydroelectric plant, it contributes to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant 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 (NEPA). Hydroelectric plants like Green Springs typically use run-of-river or reservoir-based systems to generate electricity, with minimal direct emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. The technology involves turbines driven by flowing water, making it a low-carbon energy source. Green Springs plays a role in the local power grid by providing clean, renewable energy. Its operation supports regional efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet renewable energy targets. The facility's capacity is modest relative to large-scale hydro projects, but it contributes to the diversity and resilience of the energy supply in the area.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric facility, Green Springs has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but it may affect local aquatic ecosystems through changes in water flow and fish passage. The plant's location in Oregon, a state with abundant water resources, supports its operation. Hydroelectric plants generally have minimal air quality impacts. The facility's age and specific technology are not detailed, but its capacity of 17.2 MW is typical for a small-scale hydro project.
Frequently asked questions
Green Springs is located in Oregon, United States, at coordinates 42.1212° N, 122.5479° W.
Green Springs has an installed capacity of 17.2 megawatts, making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned and operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, a federal agency managing water and power resources.
Hydroelectric plants in the USA must comply with FERC licensing, the Clean Water Act, and NEPA, which require environmental impact assessments and measures to protect aquatic ecosystems.
Hydroelectric power has low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter river flows, affect fish migration, and impact local habitats. Mitigation measures like fish ladders are often required.