Dardanelle, a hydroelectric power generation facility located in the United States, holds the position of 130th among the 1,469 hydro plants in the country and ranks 1606 overall out of 10,047 power generation facilities. With a generation capacity of 160.8 MW, it contributes a modest 0.01% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW. This ranking underscores the facility's significance within the hydroelectric sector, showcasing the essential role of renewable energy in the national energy portfolio. Commissioned in 1965 and operated by the USCE-Little Rock District, the Dardanelle facility harnesses the power of flowing water to generate electricity. It utilizes a classic hydroelectric generation technology that captures kinetic energy from the water's movement, converting it into electrical energy. This environmentally friendly approach aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, further emphasizing hydroelectricity's role in sustainable energy practices. Situated in a region characterized by a diverse energy mix, Dardanelle is flanked by several noteworthy power plants. Within a 50 km radius, the Arkansas Nuclear One plant operates at a substantial capacity of 1,824 MW, showcasing the dominance of nuclear energy in the area. Additionally, the Whillock hydro plant generates 32.4 MW, while the Scenic Hill Solar facilities contribute 5 MW and 2.2 MW, respectively. This variety of energy sources highlights the importance of a balanced and resilient energy grid, capable of meeting demand fluctuations throughout the day. Reflecting the broader national energy profile, the United States hosts a total of 10,047 plants, with natural gas as the leading fuel source. The Dardanelle facility's contribution, though small at 0.01%, plays a role in diversifying the energy portfolio, particularly in a country heavily reliant on fossil fuels. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, Dardanelle stands as a testament to the value of hydroelectric power. Its long-standing operation demonstrates the viability of renewable energy sources and their capacity to contribute to grid stability and environmental sustainability. With the increasing emphasis on clean energy and climate change mitigation, facilities like Dardanelle are vital to shaping a future where renewable energy becomes a dominant force in the United States.
61 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileHydro 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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