World Power Plants

RUCUE178 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

The RUCUE hydroelectric power generation facility is positioned as the 46th largest power plant in Chile, contributing to a national capacity of 31,543 MW across 383 total plants. With a capacity of 178 MW, RUCUE accounts for 0.56% of the country's overall electricity output, placing it firmly within the competitive landscape of Chile's energy sector, where hydroelectric power dominates. As one of the 19th largest hydro plants in the nation, RUCUE is strategically located near several significant hydroelectric facilities, including the El Toro Hydroelectric Plant and the Angostura project, both generating 450 MW and 324 MW respectively. This proximity to other large-scale hydro plants underscores the importance of hydropower in the region, enabling a stable and sustainable energy supply. The average capacity of hydro plants in Chile is approximately 220 MW, making RUCUE's output notable but reflecting the fierce competition among existing facilities. With the Chilean energy profile heavily reliant on hydroelectric power, RUCUE’s contribution is essential for meeting the growing energy demands while supporting the country’s push towards renewable resources. Operated by COLBUN S.A., RUCUE exemplifies Chile's commitment to sustainable energy development, and its consistent output plays a critical role in maintaining grid reliability. As the country advances its renewable energy initiatives, RUCUE will likely remain a key asset in the national energy landscape, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote economic growth through clean energy solutions.

Capacity
178 MW
Commissioning Year
2014

12 years old

Owner
COLBUN S.A.
Location
-37.3603°, -71.8657°

Chile, South America

Context & rankings
  • 46. largest of 383 plants in Chile
  • #7,866 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,608 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.56% of the installed capacity of Chile
Age & fleet comparison

12 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

COLBUN S.A. operates 19 plants totalling 3,200 MW

Regional density

41 plants within 100 km, 6,022 MW combined

Nearest plant: QUILLECO (8.5 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: -37.360300, -71.865700
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

RUCUE is a hydro power plant producing approximately 624 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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