Overview
Marble Falls is a 39.6 MW hydroelectric power plant operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority in Texas, USA. It provides renewable energy to the local grid.
Marble Falls is a hydroelectric power plant located in Texas, United States, with a generating capacity of 39.6 megawatts (MW). Owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority, the facility is part of a series of hydroelectric projects along the Colorado River. As a renewable energy source, it contributes to the region's clean energy portfolio. The plant utilizes hydroelectric technology, converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity. With a capacity of 39.6 MW, it falls within the small to medium scale for hydroelectric plants in the United States. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which oversees hydroelectric licensing and compliance with environmental standards. Marble Falls plays a role in supporting grid stability and providing renewable energy to the surrounding communities. Its operation helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. The plant's location on the Colorado River also supports local water management and recreational activities.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation at Marble Falls produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, making it a low-carbon energy source. However, the facility's operation can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow patterns. The plant is situated in a region with moderate population density, and its reservoir may influence local habitat and water quality. Regulatory oversight by FERC ensures compliance with environmental mitigation measures.
Frequently asked questions
Marble Falls is located in Texas, United States, on the Colorado River. Its coordinates are approximately 30.5553° N, -98.2576° W.
The Marble Falls hydroelectric plant has a generating capacity of 39.6 megawatts (MW), making it a small to medium-scale facility.
The Marble Falls plant is owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), a public utility in Texas.
Hydroelectric plants in the U.S. are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which issues licenses and ensures compliance with environmental and safety standards.
Hydroelectric power generates electricity without direct emissions of CO2, SOx, or NOx, contributing to reduced air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel plants.