Overview
Minidoka is a 27.7 MW hydroelectric power plant in the United States, operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. It provides renewable energy to the regional grid.
Minidoka is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, with a capacity of 27.7 MW. The facility is owned and operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, a federal agency responsible for water and power management in the western states. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses the energy of flowing water to generate electricity, contributing to the nation's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with environmental standards set by the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Hydroelectric plants like Minidoka are considered low-emission sources, producing no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx during operation. The technology typically involves turbines driven by water flow, with efficiency depending on head and flow rates. Minidoka plays a role in supporting grid stability and providing clean energy to the surrounding region. Its operation by a federal agency ensures alignment with broader water resource management goals, including irrigation and flood control. The plant's modest capacity makes it a small-scale contributor to the U.S. hydroelectric fleet, which totals over 100 GW.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has minimal direct air emissions, but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through altered water flow and fish passage. Minidoka's location in the Snake River basin may involve considerations for salmon and other migratory species. The plant's operation is subject to environmental flow requirements and periodic relicensing by FERC, which evaluates impacts on water quality, wildlife, and recreation.
Frequently asked questions
Minidoka is located in the United States, with coordinates 42.6699 N, -113.4832 W, in the Snake River region of Idaho.
Minidoka has a generating capacity of 27.7 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Minidoka is owned and operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, a federal agency managing water and power resources.
Hydroelectric plants in the US must comply with FERC licensing, the Clean Water Act, and NEPA, which require environmental impact assessments and mitigation measures for aquatic habitats.
Hydroelectric power produces no direct air emissions, but can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change water temperature and flow patterns. Mitigation measures like fish ladders are often required.