Overview
Moccasin is a 100 MW hydroelectric power plant in California, operated by the City & County of San Francisco. It provides renewable energy to the regional grid.
Moccasin is a hydroelectric power plant located in California, United States, with a generating capacity of 100 megawatts (MW). It is owned and operated by the City & County of San Francisco, serving as a key renewable energy asset for the municipality. The plant is currently operational and contributes to the region's clean energy portfolio. The facility utilizes hydroelectric technology, converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity. With a capacity of 100 MW, it falls within the medium-scale range for hydroelectric plants in the United States. The plant's operations are subject to federal and state regulations, including the Clean Water Act and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing requirements for hydropower projects. As a renewable energy source, Moccasin helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based generation. Its location in California supports the state's ambitious renewable energy targets and grid reliability. The plant's output is integrated into the regional power system, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the San Francisco area.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation like Moccasin has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems. The plant's operations are regulated under the Clean Water Act to manage water flow and protect fish habitats. Located in a region with seasonal water availability, the facility must balance power generation with environmental flow requirements. Its renewable nature contributes to reduced air emissions compared to thermal plants.
Frequently asked questions
Moccasin is located in California, United States, at coordinates 37.8094 N, -120.2993 W.
The Moccasin hydroelectric plant has a generating capacity of 100 megawatts (MW).
The plant is owned and operated by the City & County of San Francisco.
Hydroelectric plants in the US are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for licensing and by the Clean Water Act for environmental compliance.
Hydroelectric power is renewable with low emissions, but it can affect aquatic ecosystems through altered water flows and fish migration. Plants must comply with environmental flow requirements and habitat protection measures.