Ranked #1762 among the 10,047 power generation facilities in the United States, Great Lakes Hydro America in Maine stands as a notable player within the country's diverse energy landscape. With a capacity of 138 MW, it is the 149th largest hydro plant out of 1,469 such facilities nationwide. Commissioned in 1950, this hydroelectric power station utilizes the flow of water to generate clean, renewable energy, contributing to the growing emphasis on sustainable power sources. Hydro power in Maine is particularly significant, as it harnesses the state's abundant water resources to provide a steady and reliable energy supply. Located in a region rich with energy resources, Great Lakes Hydro America is surrounded by several other plants, including the Rollins Wind Project, which has a capacity of 60 MW, and the Indeck West Enfield Energy Center, producing 27.5 MW from waste. The nearby West Enfield Hydro and Medway Hydro plants, with capacities of 13 MW and 4 MW respectively, further illustrate the robust hydroelectric presence in the area. Together, these facilities create a regional energy cluster that bolsters Maine's electricity supply. In the broader context of the United States' energy profile, where total capacity reaches 1,386,385 MW, the importance of Great Lakes Hydro America is underscored by its role in diversifying the energy mix, even as natural gas remains the dominant fuel source. This hydroelectric facility contributes a small but vital percentage to the national capacity, emphasizing the role of renewable energy in meeting future demands. Owned and operated by Great Lakes Hydro America LLC, this facility exemplifies the long-standing tradition of hydropower in the region, having been operational for over seven decades. Its continuous contribution to the grid not only supports local energy needs but also aligns with national goals for increased reliance on renewable energy sources. As the demand for clean energy solutions grows, Great Lakes Hydro America is poised to play an essential role in the transition towards a more sustainable energy future.
76 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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