Overview
The Ninth Street Hydropower Project is a 1.2 MW hydroelectric facility in Alpena, Michigan, operated by Thunder Bay Power Co LLC. It generates renewable electricity from water flow.
The Ninth Street Hydropower Project is a small-scale hydroelectric power plant located in Alpena, Michigan, United States. With a capacity of 1.2 MW, it falls into the small-scale category for hydropower generation, contributing to local renewable energy supply. The facility is owned and operated by Thunder Bay Power Co LLC and is currently operational. As a hydroelectric plant, it utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion, resulting in minimal air emissions. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing for hydropower projects, which ensures compliance with environmental and operational standards. The plant's small capacity reflects a typical run-of-river or low-head installation common in the Great Lakes region. The project supports local grid stability and provides clean energy to the surrounding community. Its operation aligns with Michigan's renewable energy goals, contributing to the state's portfolio of low-carbon power sources. The facility's location near the Thunder Bay River offers a sustainable water resource for power generation while maintaining minimal ecological disruption.
Environmental context
The Ninth Street Hydropower Project operates in the Great Lakes region, where hydroelectric power benefits from consistent water flow. The facility's small capacity and run-of-river design likely minimize environmental impact compared to large dams, as it does not require extensive reservoirs. The plant contributes to reduced greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based generation, supporting local air quality and climate goals.
Frequently asked questions
The Ninth Street Hydropower Project is located in Alpena, Michigan, United States, near the Thunder Bay River.
The facility has a capacity of 1.2 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric plant.
The plant is owned by Thunder Bay Power Co LLC.
Hydroelectric projects in the U.S. are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which issues licenses for non-federal hydropower development to ensure environmental and operational compliance.
As a hydroelectric facility, it generates electricity without direct emissions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting renewable energy targets in Michigan.