World Power Plants

San Francisco hydro power plant135 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

In Colombia's energy sector, the San Francisco hydro power plant ranks as the 71st largest facility out of 127, showcasing its role within the national context. With a capacity of 135 MW, it contributes to the growing demand for renewable energy in a country where hydroelectric power is the dominant source, accounting for a substantial portion of the nation's 37,499 MW total capacity. This facility holds a rank of 43rd among Colombia’s 78 hydro plants, underscoring its importance in harnessing the abundant water resources available in the region. The San Francisco plant employs advanced hydroelectric technology to convert the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity. By utilizing a series of turbines, the plant maximizes energy production while maintaining a low environmental footprint, making it a vital asset in Colombia's push for sustainable energy solutions. Situated near other hydroelectric facilities, such as the Central Hidroeléctrica La Esmeralda (30 MW) and Casa Maquinas Morro Azul (19.9 MW), the San Francisco plant benefits from a collaborative energy landscape. This network of nearby plants enhances the reliability of the regional grid and showcases Colombia's commitment to leveraging its natural resources for energy generation. The proximity of these facilities creates a synergy that aids in balancing supply and demand, particularly during peak usage times. Colombia's overall energy profile reveals a strong emphasis on hydroelectricity, reflecting the country's geographic advantages and water resource availability. Although the San Francisco plant contributes approximately 0.36% of the national capacity, its role is crucial in supporting the energy transition and ensuring that the grid remains stable and efficient. As a key player in the regional hydroelectric landscape, the San Francisco hydro power plant is well-positioned to continue delivering clean energy well into the future. Its operations not only help to meet the energy needs of local communities but also contribute to Colombia’s broader environmental goals. Looking ahead, this facility exemplifies the potential for hydroelectric power to play a significant role in the country’s energy strategy, supporting both economic growth and sustainable development.

Capacity
135 MW
Commissioning Year
2015

11 years old

Owner
EPM (Empresas Públicas de Medellín)
Location
5.0502°, -75.7426°

Colombia, South America

Context & rankings
  • 71. largest of 127 plants in Colombia
  • #8,840 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,892 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.36% of the installed capacity of Colombia
Age & fleet comparison

11 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

EPM (Empresas Públicas de Medellín) operates 20 plants totalling 9,011 MW

Regional density
Data provenance

Source: Wikidata

Location

Coordinates:: 5.050249, -75.742643
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

San Francisco hydro power plant is a hydro power plant producing approximately 473 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
Colombia
Continent
South America
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

ColombiaEnergy Profile

127
Total Plants
37.5 GW
Total Capacity
HydroGasCoalOil
Top Fuels

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