Overview
Marshall Ford is a 108 MW hydroelectric power plant operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority in Texas, USA. It provides renewable energy to the region.
Marshall Ford is a hydroelectric power plant located in Texas, United States, with a generating capacity of 108 megawatts (MW). The facility is owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), a public utility that manages water and power resources in the Colorado River basin. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses the flow of water to generate electricity, contributing to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the Clean Air Act and state-level environmental regulations. Hydroelectric power is a low-emission energy source, and facilities like Marshall Ford help reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The plant's capacity of 108 MW places it in the medium-scale range for hydroelectric projects, typical for run-of-river or reservoir-based installations in the region. Marshall Ford plays a key role in the LCRA's integrated water and power management system, supporting grid stability and providing clean energy to communities in central Texas. Its operation aligns with state renewable energy goals and contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the power generation sector.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation at Marshall Ford produces minimal direct air emissions compared to fossil fuel plants, but it can affect local aquatic ecosystems through changes in water flow and temperature. The facility's location in the Colorado River basin requires careful management of water levels to balance power generation with ecological health. The plant's operation is subject to federal and state water quality standards, including the Clean Water Act, to mitigate impacts on fish and wildlife habitats.
Frequently asked questions
Marshall Ford is located in Texas, United States, on the Colorado River. The plant is operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority.
Marshall Ford has a generating capacity of 108 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), a public utility serving central Texas.
Hydroelectric plants in the USA must comply with the Clean Water Act, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and state-level water rights and environmental regulations. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) also oversees licensing for non-federal hydropower projects.
Hydroelectric power is a low-carbon energy source, but it can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change water temperature and flow patterns. Proper management and mitigation measures are required to minimize ecological impacts.