World Power Plants

Tamahara1,200 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

Tamahara is a notable hydroelectric power generation facility located in Japan, with a capacity of 1200 MW. This power plant plays a crucial role in the national energy mix, particularly as Japan seeks to transition towards more sustainable energy solutions. Positioned at coordinates 36.8014 latitude and 139.0406 longitude, Tamahara is strategically situated to harness the natural flow of water, effectively converting it into electricity through advanced hydroelectric technology. This renewable energy source is vital for Japan, a country that has been increasingly focused on reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security following the Fukushima disaster. The plant is operated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), which ensures that it meets operational standards and contributes effectively to the regional grid's stability. The significance of the Tamahara power plant extends beyond its impressive capacity; it is instrumental in providing clean energy, which is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. As Japan's energy policies evolve, the emphasis on renewable sources has intensified, making facilities like Tamahara critical in achieving national goals for sustainability. The plant not only contributes to local energy needs but also plays a part in Japan's broader commitment to achieving a balanced and diversified energy portfolio. As the country continues to invest in renewable energy technologies, Tamahara serves as a prime example of how hydroelectric power can play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable energy future.

Capacity
1,200 MW

1.20 GW

Commissioning Year
1999

27 years old

Owner
Tokyo
Location
36.8014°, 139.0406°

Japan, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 99. largest of 662 plants in Japan
  • #1,870 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #241 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.35% of the installed capacity of Japan
Age & fleet comparison

27 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Tokyo operates 24 plants totalling 47,440 MW

Regional density

49 plants within 100 km, 17,974 MW combined

Nearest plant: Tambara Dam (3.6 km)

Location

Coordinates:: 36.801400, 139.040600
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Tamahara is a hydro power plant producing approximately 4205 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

Tamahara Hydroelectric Power Plant: A Key Player in Japan's Renewable Energy Landscape

The Tamahara Hydroelectric Power Plant, with a capacity of 1200 megawatts (MW), stands as a significant contributor to Japan's energy sector. Owned and operated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), this facility harnesses the power of flowing water to generate electricity, playing a vital role in the country's transition towards renewable energy sources. As Japan seeks to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and enhance energy security, the Tamahara plant exemplifies the potential of hydroelectric power within the national energy mix.

Hydropower is a renewable energy source that generates electricity by utilizing the kinetic energy of flowing water, typically from rivers or reservoirs. In the case of the Tamahara plant, the infrastructure is designed to capture and convert the energy from water currents into electrical energy efficiently. The facility utilizes advanced turbine technology, which optimizes energy conversion, thereby maximizing output while minimizing water usage. This is particularly crucial in Japan, where water resources must be managed carefully due to geographical and climatic variations.

From an environmental perspective, the Tamahara Hydroelectric Power Plant is considered a cleaner alternative to fossil fuel-based power generation. The facility produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions during operation, aligning with Japan's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. However, like all hydroelectric projects, it is important to recognize that hydroelectric plants can have localized environmental impacts, such as alterations to aquatic ecosystems and sediment transport. TEPCO has implemented various mitigation strategies to minimize these effects and maintain ecological balance in the surrounding areas.

Regionally, the Tamahara plant plays a crucial role in stabilizing the electrical grid, particularly during peak demand periods. By providing a reliable and consistent source of renewable energy, it supports both residential and industrial users in the region. Additionally, the plant contributes to local economies by creating jobs during construction and ongoing operations, while also promoting tourism through associated recreational activities such as fishing and hiking in the nearby areas.

In conclusion, the Tamahara Hydroelectric Power Plant is an essential component of Japan's energy landscape, showcasing the advantages of hydroelectric power in contributing to sustainability and energy security. As Japan continues to navigate its energy future, facilities like Tamahara will remain pivotal in balancing the country's energy needs with environmental stewardship.

JapanEnergy Profile

662
Total Plants
342.8 GW
Total Capacity
GasNuclearCoalOil
Top Fuels

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.