World Power Plants

MONTPEZAT131.8 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

Ranked 120th among France's 2,195 power generation facilities, the MONTPEZAT hydro power plant contributes a capacity of 131.8 MW to the national grid. This facility, like many others in France, utilizes hydroelectric technology to convert the kinetic energy of flowing water into electrical energy. Although its share of the national capacity is approximately 0.05%, this contribution is vital given the context of France's energy landscape, where nuclear energy remains the dominant source but is complemented by a diverse mix that includes hydroelectric power. MONTPEZAT is strategically located within a cluster of significant hydroelectric plants, including the nearby ORAISON plant with a capacity of 187 MW and the Barrage de Sainte-Croix, which matches MONTPEZAT's output at 132 MW. This proximity to other hydro facilities fosters a collaborative energy environment, improving the overall reliability of the regional power supply. Such a network not only enhances operational efficiency but also allows for better management of energy distribution, especially during peak consumption times. In the context of France's energy profile, where a total capacity of 243,444 MW is supported by 2,195 plants, MONTPEZAT's role is part of a broader commitment to renewable energy. While nuclear power dominates the landscape, the inclusion of hydroelectric sources like MONTPEZAT reflects an ongoing dedication to sustainable energy practices and a balanced approach to meeting national energy demands. Operated by a skilled team, MONTPEZAT has been serving the energy needs of the region since its commissioning. Its operational history highlights the investment in renewable energy infrastructure that France has made over the years, showcasing the importance of such facilities in an era increasingly focused on sustainability and carbon reduction. Looking to the future, MONTPEZAT is poised to play an integral role in France's transition to a greener energy landscape. As the push for renewable energy sources intensifies, the importance of hydroelectric plants like MONTPEZAT will only grow, contributing to both local and national efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy security.

Capacity
131.8 MW
Commissioning Year
1995

31 years old

Owner
EDF
Location
43.7514°, 6.0888°

France, Europe

Context & rankings
  • 117. largest of 2,195 plants in France
  • #8,938 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,928 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.07% of the installed capacity of France
Age & fleet comparison

31 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

EDF operates 188 plants totalling 24,422 MW

Regional density

156 plants within 100 km, 4,712 MW combined

Nearest plant: Barrage de Sainte-Croix (4 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 43.751400, 6.088800
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

MONTPEZAT is a hydro power plant producing approximately 462 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
France
Continent
Europe
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

FranceEnergy Profile

2,195
Total Plants
192.2 GW
Total Capacity
NuclearHydroWindCoal
Top Fuels

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