Packwood Hydroelectric Power Plant | Washington, United States

Packwood is a hydroelectric power plant located in Washington, United States, with a capacity of 27.5 MW. Owned by Energy Northwest, the facility is operational and contributes to the region's renewable energy portfolio. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses the energy of flowing water to generate electricity without direct fuel combustion. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the Clean Water Act and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing for hydropower projects. Hydroelectric plants like Packwood are considered low-carbon energy sources, but their environmental impact includes alterations to aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The facility's capacity places it in the small-to-medium scale range for hydropower. Packwood's electricity supports the local grid and helps meet renewable energy targets in Washington state. The plant's operation aligns with regional efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in a mountainous area with significant water resources makes it well-suited for hydropower generation.

Hydroelectric power generation, as at Packwood, involves damming or diverting water, which can affect local aquatic habitats and fish migration. The plant's capacity of 27.5 MW suggests a relatively small footprint compared to large-scale dams. In the Pacific Northwest, hydropower is a major energy source, but environmental regulations require measures to mitigate impacts on salmon and other species. The facility's operation is subject to FERC licensing conditions that address environmental stewardship.