Ranked as the 210th largest power generation facility among Japan's 664 plants, Yagisawa stands out with its impressive capacity of 240 MW, contributing to the nation's diverse energy landscape. This hydroelectric plant, operated by Tokyo, is notable for its significant role in the regional energy mix, particularly in a country where nuclear energy dominates the power sector. The Yagisawa facility is the 45th largest hydro plant in Japan, reflecting its substantial capacity in comparison to the 90 hydroelectric plants in the nation, and it represents a modest 0.07% of Japan's total capacity of 357,453 MW. The Yagisawa plant utilizes state-of-the-art hydroelectric generation technology, harnessing the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity. Its strategic location enhances its operational efficiency, allowing it to capitalize on the natural water resources available in the region. The facility is surrounded by several other significant hydroelectric installations, including the Tambara Dam and Tamahara, both boasting a capacity of 1,200 MW, as well as Okukiyotsu at 1,000 MW, Okutadami with 560 MW, and Tagokura at 395 MW. This cluster of hydro plants underscores the area's critical role in regional power generation, providing a robust hydroelectric infrastructure that supports grid stability and energy reliability. In the broader context of Japan's energy profile, hydroelectric power is a crucial component, especially following the increased focus on renewable energy sources in the aftermath of the Fukushima disaster. While nuclear power remains the dominant fuel source, the Yagisawa plant, alongside its neighboring facilities, plays an essential role in diversifying Japan's energy portfolio and reducing carbon emissions. The synergy between these plants enhances the reliability of electricity supply to surrounding communities and industries, showcasing the importance of hydro power in Japan's energy strategy. Operated by Tokyo, Yagisawa has been a vital part of the energy infrastructure, supporting both local and national needs. The facility's operational history contributes to ongoing efforts toward sustainability, as it leverages renewable resources to generate electricity with minimal environmental impact. As Japan continues to transition towards a greener energy landscape, the Yagisawa hydroelectric plant is poised to play an even more significant role, highlighting the importance of investing in renewable energy technologies that can provide a stable and sustainable future.
29 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.