United States of America

Harris Dam— 135 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Jul 2026

→ More Hydroelectric plants in United States of America

CompareView on Map

Ranked as the 1773rd largest power generation facility in the United States, the Harris Dam holds a significant position within the nation's hydroelectric sector, being the 151st largest among 1469 hydro plants. Situated in Alabama, this 135 MW hydroelectric facility is operated by Alabama Power Co and was commissioned in 1983. The dam harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water, converting it into electricity through a well-established hydro generation technology that is both renewable and reliable. Its location is crucial, as it contributes to the local grid while supporting a broader energy network dominated by gas, which accounts for a substantial portion of the nation's energy profile. In the vicinity of Harris Dam, several significant power plants operate, including the Hillabee Energy Center with a capacity of 822.8 MW, the Calhoun Energy Center at 748 MW, and the LaFayette Solar Farm, generating 79.2 MW. The nearby West Point hydro facility, though smaller at 73.3 MW, and the ANAD Solar Array with a capacity of 7.4 MW, complete a diverse energy landscape within a 50 km radius. Despite being a relatively small player compared to these larger gas facilities, Harris Dam provides an essential renewable energy source, contributing to approximately 0.01% of the total national capacity of 1,386,385 MW. Alabama's energy profile shows a heavy reliance on gas, which dominates the landscape, making Harris Dam's hydroelectric contribution particularly valuable in balancing the energy mix and reducing carbon emissions. With a commitment to sustainability, Alabama Power Co continues to operate and maintain Harris Dam, ensuring that it plays a vital role in the transition towards cleaner energy solutions. The facility's strategic importance is underscored by its ability to provide renewable energy in a region where gas is the dominant fuel type, highlighting the ongoing necessity for diverse energy sources in the United States.