World Power Plants

Karkheh Dam400 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

Karkheh Dam, known locally as نیروگاه آبی کرخه, is a significant hydroelectric power generation facility located in Iran, with a capacity of 400 MW. Commissioned in 2001, this facility utilizes advanced hydroelectric technology to convert the kinetic energy of flowing water into electrical power, contributing to the national energy mix. Positioned at coordinates 32.4884° N latitude and 48.1318° E longitude, Karkheh Dam is strategically located to take advantage of the region's water resources, ensuring a reliable source of energy generation. Operated by the Iran Water & Power Resources Development Co., this power station plays a crucial role in supporting the local grid, especially in the Khuzestan province, where energy demand is significant due to industrial and agricultural activities. The Iranian government has prioritized the development of renewable energy sources, and hydroelectric facilities like Karkheh Dam are integral to achieving these objectives. The operation of this power plant not only aids in reducing reliance on fossil fuels but also enhances water management and irrigation in the region. As a result, Karkheh Dam stands out not only as a power generation facility but also as a cornerstone of sustainable development efforts in Iran. This facility exemplifies the importance of integrating water resource management with energy production, ensuring long-term benefits for the environment and local communities.

Capacity
400 MW
Commissioning Year
2001

25 years old

Owner
Iran Water & Power Resources Development Co.
Location
32.4884°, 48.1318°

Iran, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 177. largest of 327 plants in Iran
  • #5,234 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #863 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.2% of the installed capacity of Iran
Age & fleet comparison

25 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Iran Water & Power Resources Development Co. operates 4 plants totalling 2,880 MW

Regional density

10 plants within 100 km, 6,996 MW combined

Nearest plant: نیروگاه آبی سد دز (33.7 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 32.488402, 48.131787
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Karkheh Dam is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1402 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
Iran
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

IranEnergy Profile

327
Total Plants
195.6 GW
Total Capacity
GasHydroOilNuclear
Top Fuels

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