World Power Plants

Vouglans285 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

The Vouglans power plant, located in France at coordinates 46.3973, 5.6657, is a significant hydroelectric facility with a generation capacity of 285 MW. Commissioned in 1963, this power plant harnesses the natural flow of water, utilizing hydroelectric technology to generate clean and renewable energy. As one of the prominent hydro power plants in France, Vouglans plays a crucial role in the national energy mix, contributing to the country’s commitment to sustainable energy production. The plant's operations are integral to the local grid, providing a reliable source of electricity that supports both residential and industrial needs. The strategic location along the Vouglans reservoir allows for effective water management and energy generation, especially during peak demand periods. France has long been a leader in renewable energy, and facilities like Vouglans are essential in the transition towards a greener energy future. With increasing emphasis on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the hydroelectric power generated at Vouglans not only meets local energy requirements but also contributes to the larger goal of achieving energy independence and sustainability.

Capacity
285 MW
Commissioning Year
1963

63 years old

Owner
Compagnie Nationale du Rhône
Location
46.3973°, 5.6657°

France, Europe

Context & rankings
  • 83. largest of 2,195 plants in France
  • #6,293 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,155 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.15% of the installed capacity of France
Age & fleet comparison

63 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Compagnie Nationale du Rhône operates 34 plants totalling 1,159 MW

Regional density

67 plants within 100 km, 10,049 MW combined

Nearest plant: Saut Mortier (3.4 km)

Data provenance

Source: Wikidata

Location

Coordinates:: 46.397320, 5.665680
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Vouglans is a hydro power plant producing approximately 999 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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