World Power Plants

RAPEL378 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

The RAPEL power plant, located in the picturesque region of Chile, plays a crucial role in the country's energy generation landscape. With a substantial capacity of 378 MW, this hydroelectric facility harnesses the power of flowing water to convert it into clean energy, making it a vital component of Chile's renewable energy portfolio. Operated by ENDESA, a leading player in the Chilean energy sector, RAPEL utilizes advanced hydroelectric technology to efficiently generate electricity, significantly contributing to the national grid. Situated at coordinates -34.0409, -71.5902, the plant is strategically positioned to leverage the natural water resources of the region, ensuring a consistent and reliable flow of energy. The hydroelectric generation process employed at RAPEL involves diverting water from the Rapel River through a dam, which then drives turbines to produce electricity. This method not only provides a renewable source of power but also minimizes greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with Chile’s commitment to sustainable energy practices. The significance of RAPEL extends beyond its capacity; it is an integral part of the local energy mix, helping to stabilize the grid and meet the growing demand for electricity in urban areas. As Chile moves towards ambitious energy policies aimed at increasing renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, RAPEL stands out as a testament to the country's commitment to harnessing its natural resources for sustainable development. The plant’s operational efficiency and renewable energy output make it a key player in Chile's strategy to transition to a low-carbon economy. Furthermore, the geographical location of RAPEL, nestled within the Andes mountain range, not only provides ideal conditions for hydroelectric generation but also supports regional initiatives to protect water resources and promote eco-friendly energy solutions. Overall, the RAPEL power plant exemplifies the fusion of technology and sustainability, reinforcing Chile's position as a leader in renewable energy generation in South America.

Capacity
378 MW
Commissioning Year
1994

32 years old

Owner
ENDESA
Location
-34.0409°, -71.5902°

Chile, South America

Context & rankings
  • 22. largest of 383 plants in Chile
  • #5,453 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #925 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 1.2% of the installed capacity of Chile
Age & fleet comparison

32 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

ENDESA operates 18 plants totalling 4,347 MW

Regional density

26 plants within 100 km, 1,133 MW combined

Nearest plant: UCUQUER (1.9 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: -34.040900, -71.590200
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

RAPEL is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1325 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
Chile
Continent
South America
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

ChileEnergy Profile

383
Total Plants
31.5 GW
Total Capacity
HydroGasCoalSolar
Top Fuels

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