Okutataragi Pumped Storage Power Station— 1,932 MW Hydroelectric
The Okutataragi Pumped Storage Power Station is a significant hydroelectric power generation facility located in Japan, specifically at coordinates 35.2375 latitude and 134.8811 longitude. Operated by Kansai Electric Power Company, this power plant plays a crucial role in stabilizing the energy grid by providing a flexible and reliable source of electricity. With a remarkable capacity of 1932 MW, Okutataragi is one of the largest pumped storage power stations in the region, contributing significantly to Japan's energy mix. Pumped storage technology involves using excess power to pump water to an elevated reservoir during low demand periods and releasing it to generate electricity during peak demand, making it an essential component for managing energy supply and demand. The plant was commissioned in 1970 and has since been integral in supporting the Kansai region's electricity needs, particularly in times of high consumption. The location of Okutataragi in the mountainous terrain of Japan enhances its capability to harness hydro resources efficiently. As Japan continues to transition towards more sustainable energy practices, the importance of hydroelectric power, particularly from facilities like Okutataragi, remains vital. The plant not only provides energy during peak hours but also helps to balance the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, which are increasingly being integrated into the national grid. In the context of Japan’s energy policies, which emphasize reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing the share of renewable energy, the Okutataragi Pumped Storage Power Station stands out as a pivotal asset in achieving energy security and sustainability.
1.93 GW
56 years old
Japan, Asia
- 57. largest of 662 plants in Japan
- #894 worldwide by installed capacity
- #115 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
- 0.56% of the installed capacity of Japan
56 years in operation
Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years
Kansai Electric Power Company operates 11 plants totalling 14,995 MW
52 plants within 100 km, 33,627 MW combined
Source: Wikidata
Location
Zero Direct Emissions
Okutataragi Pumped Storage Power Station is a hydro power plant producing approximately 6770 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
Japan- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Okutataragi Pumped Storage Power Station: A Key Component of Japan's Hydroelectric Energy Landscape
The Okutataragi Pumped Storage Power Station, located in Japan, is a significant hydroelectric facility with a total capacity of 1,932 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 1970, this power station is owned and operated by Kansai Electric Power Company, one of Japan's leading electric utility companies. As a pumped storage power station, Okutataragi plays a crucial role in the country's energy sector by providing grid stability, peak load management, and energy storage solutions in a landscape increasingly reliant on renewable energy sources.
Pumped storage hydroelectricity is a method of storing and generating electricity by using two water reservoirs at different elevations. During periods of low electricity demand, excess energy is utilized to pump water from a lower reservoir to an upper one. Conversely, during peak demand times, the stored water is released back down to the lower reservoir, passing through turbines to generate electricity. This efficient energy storage mechanism allows the Okutataragi facility to respond rapidly to fluctuations in electricity demand, making it an essential component of Japan's energy infrastructure.
The environmental impact of the Okutataragi Pumped Storage Power Station is relatively low compared to fossil fuel-based power generation. Hydro power is a renewable energy source that produces no direct emissions during operation, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases and helping Japan to meet its climate goals. However, like all large-scale hydro projects, there are environmental considerations associated with the construction of reservoirs, including impacts on local ecosystems, aquatic habitats, and potential displacement of communities. The design and operation of Okutataragi have aimed to mitigate these effects, ensuring that the benefits of hydroelectric power are balanced with ecological conservation efforts.
Regionally, the Okutataragi Pumped Storage Power Station serves as a vital asset in the Kansai region, which is home to a large population and significant industrial activity. It helps to ensure a reliable and stable electricity supply in a region that experiences varied energy demands throughout the day. In the context of Japan's energy transition, where there has been a push towards renewable energy sources post-Fukushima, Okutataragi's ability to store energy provides a necessary complement to intermittent sources like solar and wind power.
Overall, the Okutataragi Pumped Storage Power Station exemplifies the integration of hydroelectric power within Japan's energy portfolio, reinforcing the nation's commitment to sustainable energy practices while supporting economic growth and stability in the Kansai region.
Nearby Power Plants
See Incorrect or Missing Data?
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.