The Hitotsuse power generation facility holds a noteworthy position in Japan's energy landscape, ranking #219 among the country's 664 plants. This hydroelectric station boasts a capacity of 180 MW, making it the 52nd largest hydro plant in Japan, a nation where hydroelectricity plays a vital role within its diverse energy portfolio. Hitotsuse contributes approximately 0.05% to Japan's total capacity of 357,453 MW, underscoring its modest yet significant role in the overall energy mix dominated by nuclear power. Utilizing hydroelectric technology, Hitotsuse harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity, a process that is both renewable and sustainable. Given Japan's mountainous terrain and abundant rainfall, hydroelectric power remains a critical component of the country's energy strategy, providing a reliable source of base-load generation. Situated in a region abundant in hydroelectric infrastructure, Hitotsuse is in close proximity to several notable facilities. The Omarugawa Pumped Storage Power Station, with a substantial capacity of 1200 MW, serves as a significant counterpart, providing peak load energy and supporting grid stability. Nearby, the Omarugawa facility contributes another 900 MW, while a cluster of solar plants, including Hosoe (96.2 MW), Kamenoko (32.6 MW), and Kunitomi SF (8 MW), further diversifies the energy landscape. This synergy among various forms of power generation enhances the reliability and resilience of the local grid, positioning Hitotsuse as part of a larger network of renewable energy sources. In the context of Japan's energy profile, where nuclear energy is the dominant fuel source, hydroelectric power serves as an essential complement, particularly in efforts to achieve energy security and environmental sustainability. The collective impact of these facilities demonstrates the importance of diversifying energy sources to mitigate risks associated with dependence on a single fuel type. Operated by Kyushu, Hitotsuse has been part of Japan's energy infrastructure for years, providing consistent and renewable energy since its commissioning. As the world increasingly shifts toward sustainable energy solutions, the significance of facilities like Hitotsuse grows, highlighting the importance of investing in renewable energy technologies. Looking ahead, Hitotsuse's role in Japan's energy landscape is poised to expand as the country continues to focus on sustainable energy practices and reducing its carbon footprint. The facility not only serves to contribute to the national energy supply but also stands as a testament to Japan's commitment to harnessing its natural resources responsibly.
26 years old
Japan, Asia
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
Japan- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Hydro power generation utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity. This renewable energy source operates primarily through the use of hydroelectric power plants, which are strategically placed on rivers or in locations where water flow is significant. The fundamental principle behind hydro power generation is relatively straightforward: water stored in a reservoir is released, flowing through turbines that convert the water's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then transformed into electrical energy through generators. The effectiveness of hydro power plants largely depends on the height from which water falls, known as the 'head,' and the volume of water flowing through the turbines, referred to as the 'flow rate.' Together, these factors determine the total energy output of the plant. Globally, there are approximately 7,842 hydro power plants distributed across 128 countries, with a total installed capacity of about 1,288.5 gigawatts (GW). China leads the world in hydro power generation, boasting 989 plants with a capacity of 279.9 GW. Other notable countries include Brazil with 756 plants (119.4 GW), the United States with 1,491 plants (110.2 GW), Canada with 612 plants (102.4 GW), and Madagascar, which, despite having only five plants, has a significant capacity of 91.1 GW. The extensive network of hydroelectric facilities underscores the importance of this energy source in the global power generation landscape. The advantages of hydro power generation are numerous. It is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for electricity production. Hydro power plants typically have low operational costs once established, and they can be adjusted to meet fluctuating electricity demands, providing reliable baseload power. Additionally, hydroelectric plants contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation, thereby aiding in climate change mitigation efforts. However, hydro power is not without its disadvantages. The construction of large dams can lead to significant ecological and social disruptions, including the displacement of communities and alterations to local ecosystems. The creation of reservoirs can flood vast areas of land, impacting wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Moreover, hydro power generation is highly dependent on climatic conditions; droughts can significantly reduce water availability, thereby compromising electricity output. In recent years, global trends indicate a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, with hydro power continuing to play a pivotal role. Many countries are investing in modernizing existing hydroelectric plants to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Innovations such as small-scale hydro systems, which have a reduced ecological footprint, are gaining traction, especially in regions where large-scale projects may be infeasible. Looking ahead, the future of hydro power generation appears promising yet complex. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the availability of water resources for hydroelectric generation may become increasingly unpredictable. This necessitates a balancing act between harnessing hydroelectric potential and protecting the environmental and social integrity of affected regions. Continued advancements in technology and design, alongside a commitment to sustainable practices, will be crucial for the evolution of hydro power in the global energy mix. With its significant capacity and established infrastructure, hydro power remains a cornerstone of the renewable energy landscape, poised to contribute to a sustainable future.
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.