Overview
Kaweah 1 is a 2.3 MW hydroelectric power plant in California, operated by Southern California Edison Co. It contributes to the region's renewable energy portfolio.
Kaweah 1 is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States, with a capacity of 2.3 MW. It is owned and operated by Southern California Edison Co, a major utility in the region. The plant is currently operational and plays a role in the local power grid. As a small-scale hydroelectric facility, Kaweah 1 utilizes the flow of water to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion. This technology typically has low emissions and a long operational life. In the United States, hydroelectric plants are subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing and environmental regulations, including the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The plant's small capacity indicates it serves a localized area, contributing to grid stability and renewable energy goals. Hydroelectric power is a key component of California's energy mix, supporting the state's transition to cleaner energy sources.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems. Kaweah 1's small capacity minimizes its environmental impact compared to larger dams.
Frequently asked questions
Kaweah 1 is located in California, United States, at coordinates 36.465100, -118.862000.
Kaweah 1 has a capacity of 2.3 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Kaweah 1 is owned and operated by Southern California Edison Co, a major electric utility in California.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with the Clean Water Act and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for environmental impacts.
Small hydroelectric plants like Kaweah 1 have low greenhouse gas emissions but can affect local water flow and aquatic habitats. Their small scale typically reduces ecological disruption compared to large dams.