La Muela-Cortes hydro power plant— 1,390 MW Hydroelectric
La Muela-Cortes hydro power plant is a vital renewable energy facility located in Spain, contributing significantly to the country's energy generation capabilities. With an impressive capacity of 1390 MW, this hydroelectric power plant plays an essential role in the Spanish energy mix, providing clean and sustainable electricity. Utilizing dam technology, La Muela-Cortes harnesses the power of flowing water to generate energy, making it a crucial asset in Spain's efforts to increase reliance on renewable resources. The plant is strategically situated at coordinates 39.2439° N latitude and -0.9316° E longitude, near the regions of La Muela and Cortes, where it can efficiently serve the surrounding areas and contribute to the stability of the local electricity grid. Operated by Iberdrola, one of the leading energy companies in Spain, La Muela-Cortes operates within the context of the country's ambitious energy policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and increasing the share of renewables in the energy portfolio. The operational significance of this hydro power plant is underscored by its ability to provide reliable and flexible energy generation, particularly during peak demand periods and when other sources may be less available. As Spain continues to prioritize the transition towards a more sustainable energy future, La Muela-Cortes stands out as a key player in this endeavor, ensuring a steady supply of clean energy that supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability. In summary, La Muela-Cortes hydro power plant is not only important for its capacity but also as a model of how hydroelectric power can effectively contribute to a greener energy landscape.
1.39 GW
20 years old
Spain, Europe
- 11. largest of 981 plants in Spain
- #1,443 worldwide by installed capacity
- #193 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
- 1.14% of the installed capacity of Spain
20 years in operation
Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years
Iberdrola operates 66 plants totalling 30,109 MW
75 plants within 100 km, 9,865 MW combined
Source: Wikidata
Location
Zero Direct Emissions
La Muela-Cortes hydro power plant is a hydro power plant producing approximately 4871 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
Spain- Continent
- Europe
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
La Muela-Cortes Hydropower Plant: A Key Player in Spain's Renewable Energy Landscape
The La Muela-Cortes hydropower plant, owned by Iberdrola, is a significant facility located in Spain with a total installed capacity of 1390 megawatts (MW). This plant plays a crucial role in Spain's energy sector, contributing to the country’s transition towards renewable energy sources and helping to meet its energy demands sustainably. As one of the largest hydropower plants in Spain, La Muela-Cortes utilizes the kinetic and potential energy of flowing water to generate electricity, thereby minimizing reliance on fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Hydropower, the primary fuel type for La Muela-Cortes, harnesses energy from water flow, making it a renewable resource that is inherently sustainable. The operation of the plant involves the use of water reservoirs to store water, which is then released through turbines to generate electricity. This method not only provides a reliable energy supply but also allows for energy storage, which can be crucial during periods of high demand or when other renewable sources, such as solar and wind, are less productive. The hydropower generated at La Muela-Cortes contributes significantly to the stability and reliability of the Spanish electricity grid.
In terms of environmental impact, hydropower is generally considered a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. However, the construction and operation of large-scale hydropower plants can lead to ecological disruptions, such as changes in local ecosystems, fish populations, and water quality. Nevertheless, Iberdrola has implemented measures to mitigate these impacts, including fish passage systems and environmental management plans, aimed at preserving local biodiversity and ensuring the sustainability of the surrounding natural environment.
Regionally, the La Muela-Cortes plant is of great significance not only for its energy production but also for its contribution to local employment and development. The facility supports local economies through job creation and infrastructure development related to the construction and maintenance of the plant. Furthermore, the plant serves as a model for sustainable energy practices, promoting awareness of renewable energy's benefits within the community and the broader region.
Overall, the La Muela-Cortes hydropower plant exemplifies the potential of renewable energy sources in Spain’s energy landscape. As the country continues to pursue ambitious energy transition goals, this facility stands as a testament to the importance of hydropower in achieving a sustainable and secure energy future.
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