World Power Plants

METTUR DAM250 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

The Mettur Dam is a prominent hydroelectric power generation facility located in India, with a commissioned capacity of 250 MW since 1960. This power plant harnesses the energy of water through a dam system, making it a pivotal contributor to the region's electricity supply. The Mettur Dam is situated at coordinates 11.8014, 77.8085 in Tamil Nadu, a state known for its diverse energy needs and reliance on hydroelectric power. The facility plays an essential role in the local grid, especially during the monsoon season when water levels rise and hydro generation can be maximized. Hydroelectric power is a renewable energy source that aligns with India’s objectives to increase the share of clean energy in its overall energy mix. The Mettur Dam not only provides reliable electricity but also supports irrigation and flood control efforts in the surrounding areas, highlighting its multifaceted importance. As part of Tamil Nadu's energy strategy, the dam's output helps balance the grid, particularly during peak demand periods when other energy sources may fall short. The operational efficiency of the Mettur Dam, combined with its strategic location, underscores the significance of hydroelectric power in India's overall energy landscape. As the country seeks to expand its renewable energy portfolio, the Mettur Dam stands as a testament to the potential of hydroelectric facilities to provide sustainable and reliable energy generation.

Capacity
250 MW
Commissioning Year
1960

66 years old

Owner
TANGEDCO
Location
11.8014°, 77.8085°

India, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 412. largest of 1,805 plants in India
  • #6,654 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,236 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.05% of the installed capacity of India
Age & fleet comparison

66 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

TANGEDCO operates 8 plants totalling 1,821 MW

Regional density

19 plants within 100 km, 3,388 MW combined

Nearest plant: Mettur Thermal Power Station (3.3 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 11.801400, 77.808500
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

METTUR DAM is a hydro power plant producing approximately 876 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
India
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

IndiaEnergy Profile

1,805
Total Plants
513.9 GW
Total Capacity
CoalGasHydroSolar
Top Fuels

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