Overview
Headgate Rock is a 19.5 MW hydroelectric power plant in Arizona, United States, operated by the Colorado River Indian Irrigation Project. It generates renewable energy from the Colorado River.
Headgate Rock is a hydroelectric power plant located in Arizona, United States, with a capacity of 19.5 megawatts. The facility is owned by the Colorado River Indian Irrigation Project and is currently operational. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses the flow of the Colorado River to generate electricity, contributing to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the Clean Water Act and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing requirements for hydropower projects. Hydroelectric plants of this scale are typical for run-of-river or small impoundment projects in the southwestern U.S., where water availability is a key operational factor. Headgate Rock plays a role in providing clean energy to the local grid, supporting the Colorado River Indian Tribes' energy needs and regional sustainability goals. Its operation aligns with the broader shift toward renewable energy sources in the United States, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
Environmental context
The plant's hydroelectric generation produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, making it a low-carbon energy source. However, its operation on the Colorado River may affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow patterns. The facility's capacity of 19.5 MW is modest, limiting its environmental footprint compared to larger dams. Proximity to populated areas is minimal, reducing local air quality impacts.
Frequently asked questions
Headgate Rock is located in Arizona, United States, along the Colorado River. Its coordinates are approximately 34.1683° N, -114.2774° W.
Headgate Rock has a generating capacity of 19.5 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned by the Colorado River Indian Irrigation Project. It is part of the irrigation project's infrastructure.
Hydroelectric plants in the U.S. are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and compliance, along with the Clean Water Act for water quality and environmental impact.
As a hydroelectric plant, Headgate Rock generates electricity without direct fossil fuel combustion, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting renewable energy targets in Arizona.