Overview
Kern River 1 is a 26.4 MW hydroelectric power plant operated by Southern California Edison Co in California, USA. It contributes renewable energy to the regional grid.
Kern River 1 is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States, with a capacity of 26.4 MW. It is owned and operated by Southern California Edison Co, a major utility in the region. The plant is operational and plays a role in the state's renewable energy portfolio. The plant uses hydroelectric technology, which generates electricity from flowing water without direct fuel combustion, resulting in low emissions. In the US, hydroelectric plants are regulated under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with environmental laws such as the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). As a small-scale hydro facility, Kern River 1 provides clean energy to the local grid, supporting California's goals for renewable energy adoption. Its operation contributes to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helps meet state renewable portfolio standards.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through changes in water flow and fish passage. Kern River 1 is located in a region with diverse wildlife, and its operations are subject to environmental regulations to minimize ecological impact. The plant's small capacity limits its overall environmental footprint compared to larger facilities.
Frequently asked questions
Kern River 1 is located in California, United States, at coordinates 35.460300, -118.779600.
Kern River 1 has a generating capacity of 26.4 megawatts (MW).
Kern River 1 is owned 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, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and other environmental laws.
Hydroelectric power has low greenhouse gas emissions but can affect aquatic ecosystems through altered water flows and fish migration. Facilities are often required to implement mitigation measures.