World Power Plants

The Palmiet Power Station is a significant hydroelectric facility located in South Africa, contributing to the national energy mix with its substantial 400 MW capacity. This power plant, operated by Eskom, harnesses the natural flow of water to generate electricity, showcasing the efficiency and sustainability of hydroelectric technology. Commissioned in 1988, Palmiet plays a crucial role in providing reliable energy generation for the region, particularly in the Western Cape, where it is strategically positioned at coordinates -34.1972, 18.9736. The facility utilizes a dam system, which allows it to store water and generate electricity during peak demand periods, thereby enhancing the stability of the local grid. As South Africa continues to address its energy challenges, hydroelectric sources like Palmiet are pivotal in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and advancing the country’s renewable energy goals. The integration of this power generation facility into the national grid underscores the importance of diverse energy sources in achieving energy security and sustainability.

Capacity
400 MW
Commissioning Year
1988

38 years old

Owner
Eskom
Location
-34.1972°, 18.9736°

South Africa, Africa

Context & rankings
  • 28. largest of 232 plants in South Africa
  • #5,237 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #863 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.56% of the installed capacity of South Africa
Age & fleet comparison

38 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Eskom operates 53 plants totalling 61,395 MW

Regional density

16 plants within 100 km, 7,604 MW combined

Nearest plant: Steenbras Power Station (8.5 km)

Data provenance

Source: Eskom

Location

Coordinates:: -34.197200, 18.973600
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Palmiet is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1402 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

South AfricaEnergy Profile

232
Total Plants
71.9 GW
Total Capacity
CoalHydroSolarGas
Top Fuels

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