The Angostura Dam, located in Mexico, is a prominent hydroelectric power generation facility with a capacity of 900 MW. Operated by Comisión Federal de Electricidad, this dam plays a vital role in the energy landscape of Mexico, particularly in the Chiapas region where it is situated. The coordinates 16.4044 latitude and -92.7750 longitude highlight its strategic placement near significant water resources, allowing for efficient energy generation through hydroelectric technology. Commissioned in 1969, the Angostura Dam utilizes a run-of-river hydroelectric system, which harnesses the flow of the river to produce electricity without the need for extensive water storage. This makes it an environmentally friendly option compared to traditional fossil fuel power plants. The facility's contribution to the national energy grid is significant, as it provides a reliable source of renewable energy that supports Mexico's efforts to increase its renewable energy capacity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Angostura Dam is crucial for ensuring energy security in the region while also complying with national energy policies aimed at promoting sustainable and renewable energy sources. As Mexico continues to advance its energy transition, the Angostura Dam remains a cornerstone of the country's hydroelectric generation portfolio.
57 years old
Mexico, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
Mexico- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
The Angostura Dam is a significant hydroelectric power plant located in Mexico, with a generation capacity of 900 megawatts (MW). Owned and operated by the Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), this facility was commissioned in 1969 and has since played a critical role in the country’s energy sector. The Angostura Dam harnesses the flow of the Grijalva River, utilizing the gravitational force of water to generate electricity, which is a hallmark of hydroelectric power generation. This method of energy production is not only renewable but also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation.
Hydroelectric power plants like Angostura Dam work by converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into mechanical energy through turbines, which is then transformed into electrical energy. The facility's 900 MW capacity allows it to provide a substantial amount of electricity to the national grid, supporting both residential and industrial energy demands. As one of the key contributors to Mexico's renewable energy portfolio, the Angostura Dam exemplifies the country's commitment to diversifying its energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
The environmental impact of Angostura Dam has been a subject of scrutiny and discussion. While hydroelectric power is generally considered cleaner than fossil fuels, the construction of dams can disrupt local ecosystems, alter water quality, and affect fish populations. The Angostura Dam, built in the picturesque landscapes of Chiapas, has transformed the surrounding environment, leading to the creation of a large reservoir. While this has facilitated the generation of renewable energy, it has also posed challenges for local wildlife and communities dependent on the river's natural flow.
Regionally, the Angostura Dam holds substantial significance. It not only contributes to the energy supply of Chiapas but also supports neighboring states by providing electricity to the national grid. This has fostered economic development in the region by enabling industrial growth and improving access to electricity for rural communities. Furthermore, the dam has become a critical resource for flood control and irrigation, benefiting agriculture in the surrounding areas.
In conclusion, the Angostura Dam stands as a vital hydroelectric facility within Mexico's energy landscape. Its role in providing renewable energy, coupled with the associated environmental considerations and regional benefits, highlights the complexities of managing natural resources for sustainable development. As Mexico continues to advance its energy policies, the Angostura Dam will remain a pivotal asset in the transition toward a more sustainable and diversified energy future.
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.
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