World Power Plants

Hartwell Lake420 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Jul 2026

Hartwell Lake is a significant hydroelectric power generation facility located in the United States, boasting a capacity of 420 MW. Commissioned in 1966, this facility is operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers' Savannah District and is strategically positioned at coordinates 34.3564° N and 82.8219° W in South Carolina. The Hartwell Lake dam utilizes run-of-river hydroelectric technology, harnessing the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity efficiently. This method not only provides a sustainable source of energy but also plays a critical role in water management and flood control in the region. As a key contributor to the local energy grid, Hartwell Lake supports both residential and commercial energy needs while promoting environmental sustainability. The facility aligns with broader national energy policies that emphasize renewable energy sources and the importance of hydropower in reducing reliance on fossil fuels. By generating clean energy from its hydroelectric capabilities, Hartwell Lake is integral to the Southeast's energy landscape, ensuring that the region benefits from reliable and environmentally friendly power generation.

Capacity
420 MW
Commissioning Year
1966

60 years old

Owner
USCE-Savannah District
Location
34.3564°, -82.8219°

United States of America, North America

Context & rankings
  • 965. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
  • #5,099 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #832 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.03% of the installed capacity of United States of America
Age & fleet comparison

60 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

USCE-Savannah District operates 3 plants totalling 1,410 MW

Regional density

54 plants within 100 km, 13,058 MW combined

Nearest plant: Hartwell Energy Facility (1.9 km)

Location

Coordinates:: 34.356400, -82.821900
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Hartwell Lake is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1472 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
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