Ranking as the 8th largest power generation facility in Azerbaijan, Yenikend plays a vital role in the country's hydroelectric sector. With a capacity of 150 MW, it stands out as the 3rd largest hydro plant among the five existing in the nation, contributing significantly to the overall energy supply. The plant utilizes advanced hydroelectric technology to generate electricity efficiently from water flow, making it an essential asset in Azerbaijan's energy mix, which predominantly relies on oil. Located at coordinates 40.9193, 46.2829, Yenikend's strategic position allows it to harness the water resources of the region effectively. In the vicinity of Yenikend, the Shamkir power generation facility is noteworthy, boasting a much larger capacity of 405 MW. This proximity highlights the collective strength of hydroelectric resources in the region while also demonstrating the capacity differences between the two plants. The combination of Yenikend and Shamkir ensures a reliable supply of renewable energy, contributing to the national grid's stability. While the region is not densely packed with hydro plants, the collaboration between these two facilities plays a crucial role in supporting the local energy infrastructure. Azerbaijan's overall energy profile includes 14 total plants with a combined capacity of 5,764 MW, making Yenikend's 2.60% share of national capacity a vital component of the country's energy landscape. This facility is instrumental in the ongoing transition towards more sustainable energy sources, as Azerbaijan seeks to diversify its energy portfolio away from its historical reliance on fossil fuels. The dominance of oil in the national energy profile emphasizes the importance of hydropower plants like Yenikend in establishing a more balanced and environmentally friendly energy strategy. Owned and operated by AzerEnerji, Yenikend was commissioned in the year 2000, marking over two decades of service in the renewable energy sector. The facility's long-standing operation reflects its reliability and importance to the region's energy needs. Looking ahead, Yenikend is poised to continue making significant contributions to Azerbaijan's renewable energy goals, supporting both economic growth and environmental sustainability in the process.
26 years old
Azerbaijan, Asia
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
Azerbaijan- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Hydro power generation utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity. This renewable energy source operates primarily through the use of hydroelectric power plants, which are strategically placed on rivers or in locations where water flow is significant. The fundamental principle behind hydro power generation is relatively straightforward: water stored in a reservoir is released, flowing through turbines that convert the water's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then transformed into electrical energy through generators. The effectiveness of hydro power plants largely depends on the height from which water falls, known as the 'head,' and the volume of water flowing through the turbines, referred to as the 'flow rate.' Together, these factors determine the total energy output of the plant. Globally, there are approximately 7,842 hydro power plants distributed across 128 countries, with a total installed capacity of about 1,288.5 gigawatts (GW). China leads the world in hydro power generation, boasting 989 plants with a capacity of 279.9 GW. Other notable countries include Brazil with 756 plants (119.4 GW), the United States with 1,491 plants (110.2 GW), Canada with 612 plants (102.4 GW), and Madagascar, which, despite having only five plants, has a significant capacity of 91.1 GW. The extensive network of hydroelectric facilities underscores the importance of this energy source in the global power generation landscape. The advantages of hydro power generation are numerous. It is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for electricity production. Hydro power plants typically have low operational costs once established, and they can be adjusted to meet fluctuating electricity demands, providing reliable baseload power. Additionally, hydroelectric plants contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation, thereby aiding in climate change mitigation efforts. However, hydro power is not without its disadvantages. The construction of large dams can lead to significant ecological and social disruptions, including the displacement of communities and alterations to local ecosystems. The creation of reservoirs can flood vast areas of land, impacting wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Moreover, hydro power generation is highly dependent on climatic conditions; droughts can significantly reduce water availability, thereby compromising electricity output. In recent years, global trends indicate a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, with hydro power continuing to play a pivotal role. Many countries are investing in modernizing existing hydroelectric plants to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Innovations such as small-scale hydro systems, which have a reduced ecological footprint, are gaining traction, especially in regions where large-scale projects may be infeasible. Looking ahead, the future of hydro power generation appears promising yet complex. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the availability of water resources for hydroelectric generation may become increasingly unpredictable. This necessitates a balancing act between harnessing hydroelectric potential and protecting the environmental and social integrity of affected regions. Continued advancements in technology and design, alongside a commitment to sustainable practices, will be crucial for the evolution of hydro power in the global energy mix. With its significant capacity and established infrastructure, hydro power remains a cornerstone of the renewable energy landscape, poised to contribute to a sustainable future.
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.