Overview
Mammoth Pool is a 190 MW hydroelectric power plant in California, operated by Southern California Edison Co. It provides renewable energy to the regional grid.
Mammoth Pool is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States. With a capacity of 190 MW, it is a medium-scale facility within the hydroelectric sector. The plant is owned and operated by Southern California Edison Co, a major utility serving the region. The facility operates as a run-of-river or reservoir-based hydroelectric plant, typical for California's mountainous terrain. It benefits from the state's regulatory framework under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing, which ensures compliance with environmental and operational standards. Hydroelectric plants like Mammoth Pool contribute to California's renewable energy portfolio, supporting state goals for clean electricity generation. Mammoth Pool plays a role in grid stability and peak load management, providing flexible power generation. Its operation supports local communities by delivering renewable energy without direct emissions. The plant's location in a forested area requires careful management of water flows and ecological impacts, aligning with California's environmental regulations.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation at Mammoth Pool involves water management that can affect local aquatic ecosystems. The facility's operations are subject to FERC licensing conditions that mandate fish passage, minimum flow requirements, and habitat protection. California's strict environmental laws further regulate water quality and land use, minimizing ecological disruption. The plant's renewable energy output helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Mammoth Pool is located in California, United States, at coordinates 37.2203, -119.3380.
Mammoth Pool has a capacity of 190 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale hydroelectric facility.
Mammoth Pool is owned and operated by Southern California Edison Co, a major utility company in the United States.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under the Federal Power Act, which governs licensing, safety, and environmental compliance.
As a hydroelectric plant, Mammoth Pool generates electricity without direct CO2 emissions, supporting California's renewable energy goals and grid reliability.