Overview
McSwain is a 9 MW hydroelectric power plant in California, operated by the Merced Irrigation District. It provides renewable energy to the local grid.
McSwain is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States, with a capacity of 9 MW. Operated by the Merced Irrigation District, it is part of the region's renewable energy infrastructure, converting water flow into electricity. As a hydroelectric facility, McSwain operates under the regulatory framework of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with environmental standards such as the Clean Water Act. The plant's small scale is typical for run-of-river or irrigation-based hydro projects in the western US. The plant supports local energy needs while contributing to California's renewable portfolio standards. Its operation is integrated with water management for irrigation, providing dual benefits of power generation and agricultural water supply.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric plants like McSwain have a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems. The facility's location in California's Central Valley means it operates in a region with significant water management challenges. Its small capacity minimizes large-scale environmental impacts, but careful operation is needed to maintain downstream flow conditions.
Frequently asked questions
McSwain is located in California, United States, at coordinates 37.5221, -120.3101.
McSwain has a capacity of 9 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
McSwain is operated by the Merced Irrigation District, which manages water and power resources in the region.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with the Clean Water Act and other environmental laws.
McSwain generates electricity from flowing water, a renewable source, supporting California's goals for clean energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.