Lilliwaup Falls Generating Hydroelectric Power Plant, Washington, USA

Lilliwaup Falls Generating is a hydroelectric power plant located in Washington, United States. With a capacity of 1.4 MW, it is a small-scale facility that harnesses the energy of flowing water to generate electricity. The plant is owned by William G. Reed Jr and is currently operational. Hydroelectric power plants like Lilliwaup Falls Generating operate under the regulatory framework of the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and environmental compliance. The plant uses a run-of-river or impoundment design typical of small hydro projects in the Pacific Northwest, a region known for its abundant water resources and hydropower generation. The facility provides clean, renewable energy to the local grid, supporting Washington's energy mix which includes a significant share of hydropower. Its small capacity means it serves a niche role, possibly powering local communities or feeding into the broader distribution network. The plant's operation aligns with state renewable energy goals and contributes to reducing carbon emissions.

The plant's hydroelectric generation produces no direct air emissions, but its environmental footprint includes potential impacts on aquatic ecosystems and water flow. Located in a forested region of Washington, the facility operates in an area with rich biodiversity. Small hydro plants like this typically have lower ecological disruption than large dams, but still require careful management of fish passage and streamflow to minimize habitat alteration.