Overview
Lower Monumental is an 810 MW hydroelectric power plant in Washington State, USA, operated by the USACE Northwestern Division. It provides renewable energy to the Pacific Northwest grid.
Lower Monumental is a hydroelectric power plant located on the Snake River in Washington State, United States. With a capacity of 810 megawatts, it is a large-scale facility within the US hydroelectric sector, contributing to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant is operated by the USACE Northwestern Division and has been in operational status. The plant utilizes hydroelectric technology, converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity. As a run-of-river or storage facility, it benefits from the Snake River's hydrology. The US regulatory framework for hydroelectric projects includes the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing and the Clean Water Act, ensuring environmental compliance and water resource management. Lower Monumental plays a significant role in the Pacific Northwest's energy grid, providing dispatchable renewable power that supports grid stability and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Its operation contributes to the region's clean energy goals and provides electricity to communities across multiple states.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation at Lower Monumental has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but it can affect local aquatic ecosystems and river flow regimes. The facility's location on the Snake River requires careful management of fish passage and water quality to mitigate impacts on salmon and other species. The surrounding area is semi-arid, with agriculture and wildlife habitats that depend on regulated river flows.
Frequently asked questions
Lower Monumental is located on the Snake River in Washington State, USA, near the town of Kahlotus.
Lower Monumental has a generating capacity of 810 megawatts, making it a large hydroelectric facility.
The plant is operated by the USACE Northwestern Division, a branch of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Hydroelectric plants in the US must comply with FERC licensing requirements, the Clean Water Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act, which address water quality, fish passage, and ecosystem impacts.
Hydroelectric power provides about 6-7% of US electricity, offering renewable, low-carbon baseload power and grid stability benefits.