Overview
Ladysmith Dam is a 3.4 MW hydroelectric power plant in Wisconsin, United States, operated by Northern States Power Co - Minnesota. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Ladysmith Dam is a hydroelectric power plant located in Wisconsin, United States, with a capacity of 3.4 MW. The facility is owned by Northern States Power Co - Minnesota and is currently operational. As a small-scale hydroelectric plant, it contributes 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 for hydropower projects. Hydroelectric plants like Ladysmith Dam typically use run-of-river or impoundment technology to convert water flow into electricity, with minimal emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. Ladysmith Dam provides clean energy to the local grid, supporting Wisconsin's renewable energy goals. Its small capacity makes it suitable for local or community-scale power supply, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to lower carbon emissions in the region.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation at Ladysmith Dam has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through changes in water flow and fish passage. The plant's small capacity minimizes landscape alteration, and its operation under FERC regulations ensures environmental mitigation measures are in place. The facility supports renewable energy targets in Wisconsin.
Frequently asked questions
Ladysmith Dam is located in Wisconsin, United States, at coordinates 45.464400, -91.083600.
Ladysmith Dam has a capacity of 3.4 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Ladysmith Dam is owned by Northern States Power Co - Minnesota, a utility company.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under the Federal Power Act, and must comply with the Clean Water Act and other environmental laws.
Hydroelectric power has low greenhouse gas emissions but can affect water flow, fish migration, and local ecosystems. Mitigation measures like fish ladders and environmental flow releases are often required.