World Power Plants

Fontana Dam254.7 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Jul 2026

Fontana Dam is a prominent hydroelectric power plant situated in the United States, contributing 254.7 MW to the regional energy grid. Commissioned in 1947, this facility employs dam technology to convert the potential energy of water into electricity, making it a sustainable source of power generation. Located at coordinates 35.4507, -83.8050, the Fontana Dam is operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority, playing a vital role in the management of water resources and energy supply in the Tennessee Valley region. The dam not only provides clean electricity but also helps in flood control and water supply management, reflecting its multifaceted importance to the area. As the United States continues to shift towards renewable energy sources, the Fontana Dam aligns with national energy policies aimed at enhancing sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. Its significant capacity enables it to support local energy demands while contributing to the overall resilience of the energy grid in the region. By harnessing the power of water, Fontana Dam stands as a key player in the transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

Capacity
254.7 MW
Commissioning Year
1947

79 years old

Owner
Tennessee Valley Authority
Location
35.4507°, -83.8050°

United States of America, North America

Context & rankings
  • 1,244. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
  • #6,611 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,229 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.02% of the installed capacity of United States of America
Age & fleet comparison

79 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Tennessee Valley Authority operates 60 plants totalling 47,132 MW

Regional density

52 plants within 100 km, 12,001 MW combined

Nearest plant: Santeetlah (5.3 km)

Location

Coordinates:: 35.450700, -83.805000
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Fontana Dam is a hydro power plant producing approximately 892 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
United States of America
Continent
North America
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

United States of AmericaEnergy Profile

10,098
Total Plants
1420.7 GW
Total Capacity
GasCoalNuclearWind
Top Fuels

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