Overview
Lawrence Hydroelectric Associates is a 14.8 MW hydroelectric power plant in Lawrence, Massachusetts, USA. It is operational and owned by Lawrence Hydroelectric Assoc.
Lawrence Hydroelectric Associates is a hydroelectric power plant located in Lawrence, Massachusetts, United States. With a capacity of 14.8 MW, it falls within the small-scale range for hydroelectric facilities, contributing to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for hydropower licensing and compliance. As a run-of-river or impoundment hydro facility, it generates electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal air emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. This facility plays a role in the local grid by providing clean, renewable energy to the Lawrence area. Its operation supports Massachusetts' renewable energy goals and reduces reliance on fossil fuel-based generation, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions in the region.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Lawrence Hydroelectric Associates produces electricity with no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, offering a low-carbon energy source. The plant's location on a river may influence local aquatic ecosystems, with potential impacts on fish migration and water flow. Its small capacity (14.8 MW) limits the scale of environmental alteration, and operations are subject to FERC environmental conditions to mitigate ecological effects.
Frequently asked questions
Lawrence Hydroelectric Associates is located in Lawrence, Massachusetts, United States, at coordinates 42.6994, -71.1653.
The plant has a capacity of 14.8 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned by Lawrence Hydroelectric Assoc.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which issues licenses for construction and operation, and enforces environmental and safety standards.
Hydroelectric power generates electricity without direct combustion, resulting in no emissions of CO2, SOx, or NOx during operation, making it a renewable and low-carbon energy source.