Overview
Long Lake is a 70 MW hydroelectric power plant operated by Avista Corp in Washington, United States. It provides renewable energy to the regional grid.
Long Lake is a hydroelectric power plant located in Washington, United States, with an installed capacity of 70 MW. Owned and operated by Avista Corp, the facility is part of the region's renewable energy infrastructure, contributing to the Pacific Northwest's hydropower generation. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with environmental standards set by the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). As a hydroelectric facility, it uses water flow from the Spokane River to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in low carbon emissions. Long Lake plays a significant role in providing clean energy to the local community and supporting grid stability. Its operational status as an active hydroelectric plant underscores its importance in the region's energy mix, contributing to renewable energy goals and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Long Lake has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but its operations can affect local aquatic ecosystems. The facility's location on the Spokane River may influence fish migration and water flow patterns. Regulatory requirements under the Clean Water Act and FERC licensing conditions help mitigate environmental impacts through measures such as fish passage facilities and minimum flow requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Long Lake is located in Washington, United States, on the Spokane River. Its coordinates are approximately 47.8344° N, -117.8361° W.
Long Lake has an installed capacity of 70 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-sized hydroelectric facility.
Long Lake is owned and operated by Avista Corp, a utility company serving the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.
Hydroelectric plants in the U.S. must comply with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing, the Clean Water Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). These regulations address water quality, fish passage, and ecosystem impacts.
Hydroelectric power generates electricity without direct emissions, but it can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change water flow patterns. Mitigation measures like fish ladders and environmental flow releases are often required.