Gariep Hydroelectric Power Station— 360 MW Hydroelectric
The Gariep Hydroelectric Power Station, positioned at coordinates -30.6260, 25.5040 in South Africa, is a cornerstone of the nation’s renewable energy strategy. With a robust capacity of 360 MW, this hydroelectric facility plays a crucial role in the energy generation mix of South Africa, contributing significantly to the grid operated by Eskom. Commissioned in the late 1990s, Gariep harnesses the power of the Gariep Dam, utilizing its water resources to generate clean electricity through a series of turbines. The use of hydroelectric technology not only supports the country’s quest for sustainable energy solutions but also aids in flood control and irrigation benefits for the surrounding areas. The strategic location of the Gariep facility allows it to leverage the natural flow of the Orange River, optimizing energy production during peak flow seasons. As South Africa grapples with energy supply challenges and seeks to diversify its energy sources, the Gariep Hydroelectric Power Station stands out as a reliable and efficient power generation facility. The ongoing energy policy initiatives aimed at increasing the share of renewables in the national energy portfolio further enhance the significance of Gariep, making it a pivotal player in the transition towards a more sustainable energy future.
55 years old
South Africa, Africa
- 30. largest of 232 plants in South Africa
- #5,549 worldwide by installed capacity
- #952 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
- 0.5% of the installed capacity of South Africa
55 years in operation
Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years
Eskom operates 53 plants totalling 61,395 MW
8 plants within 100 km, 1,109 MW combined
Source: OpenStreetMap
Location
Zero Direct Emissions
Gariep Hydroelectric Power Station is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1261 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
South Africa- Continent
- Africa
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Nearby Power Plants
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