Magic Dam Hydroelectric Project - 9 MW Hydroelectric Power Plant in the United States

Magic Dam Hydroelectric Project is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, with coordinates 43.2547° N, -114.3569° W. The facility has a generating capacity of 9 megawatts (MW), placing it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric power. It is currently operational and owned by Wood Hydro LLC. As a hydroelectric plant, Magic Dam utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity, a renewable and low-carbon energy source. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing for hydropower projects and compliance with the Clean Water Act. Hydroelectric plants of this scale typically use run-of-river or impoundment technologies, depending on local hydrology. The plant contributes to the regional energy grid by providing clean, dispatchable power. Its small capacity suggests it may serve local communities or support peak demand. The environmental impact is minimal compared to fossil fuel plants, with no direct air emissions, though it may affect local aquatic ecosystems through water flow alterations.

The facility is located in a rural area of Idaho, near the Magic Reservoir. Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can alter river ecosystems through changes in water flow and temperature. The plant's small capacity reduces its overall environmental impact, and it operates under FERC regulations that include environmental mitigation measures.