Overview
Mother Ann Lee is a 2.1 MW hydroelectric power plant in the United States, operated by Lock 7 Hydro Partners LLC. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Mother Ann Lee is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, with coordinates 37.8297° N, -84.7247° W. The facility has a generating capacity of 2.1 megawatts (MW), placing it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric plants. It is owned and operated by Lock 7 Hydro Partners LLC and is currently operational. As a hydroelectric facility, Mother Ann Lee utilizes the flow of water to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal air emissions. The plant's capacity is modest, typical of run-of-river or small dam projects. In the United States, hydroelectric plants are regulated under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing requirements, which include environmental impact assessments and operational conditions to protect aquatic ecosystems. The plant contributes to the local energy grid with renewable, low-carbon power. Its small scale means it serves a localized area, potentially supporting community energy needs or feeding into regional distribution networks. Hydroelectric plants like this one play a role in diversifying the energy mix and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic habitats through altered water flow and fish passage. The Mother Ann Lee plant's small capacity suggests minimal environmental impact, though specific local conditions are not detailed. Typical small hydro projects are designed to balance energy production with environmental stewardship.
Frequently asked questions
The Mother Ann Lee hydroelectric plant is located in the United States, at coordinates 37.8297° N, -84.7247° W. It operates under the jurisdiction of U.S. federal and state regulations.
The Mother Ann Lee hydroelectric plant has a generating capacity of 2.1 megawatts (MW), which classifies it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The Mother Ann Lee hydroelectric plant is owned by Lock 7 Hydro Partners LLC. Ownership implies operational responsibility.
Hydroelectric plants in the USA are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under the Federal Power Act. They must obtain licenses that include environmental impact assessments, fish passage requirements, and water quality management under the Clean Water Act.
Hydroelectric power is a renewable energy source with low greenhouse gas emissions. However, it can affect aquatic ecosystems through altered water flow, habitat fragmentation, and fish migration barriers. Small-scale plants like Mother Ann Lee typically have reduced environmental footprints compared to large dams.