World Power Plants

Hells Canyon391.5 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Jul 2026

Hells Canyon is a prominent hydroelectric power plant located in the United States, playing a vital role in the energy generation landscape of the Pacific Northwest. With a capacity of 391.5 MW, this facility has been operational since 1967 and continues to provide substantial amounts of renewable energy to the regional grid. Situated at coordinates 45.2439, -116.7008, Hells Canyon leverages the powerful flow of the Snake River to generate electricity, employing advanced hydroelectric technology that ensures efficient conversion of hydraulic energy into electrical power. Operated by Idaho Power Co, the plant is integral to the company’s strategy of supplying clean energy to its customers while supporting the growing demand for sustainable power solutions. The significance of Hells Canyon extends beyond mere generation capacity; it is also crucial in regulating water flow and supporting irrigation needs in the surrounding areas. As the U.S. energy sector increasingly focuses on reducing carbon emissions and enhancing sustainability, hydroelectric plants like Hells Canyon are essential assets. They provide a renewable energy source that complements other forms of generation, thus enhancing grid reliability and stability in a region known for its vast natural resources.

Capacity
391.5 MW
Commissioning Year
1967

59 years old

Owner
Idaho Power Co
Location
45.2439°, -116.7008°

United States of America, North America

Context & rankings
  • 998. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
  • #5,366 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #912 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.03% of the installed capacity of United States of America
Age & fleet comparison

59 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Idaho Power Co operates 22 plants totalling 2,561 MW

Regional density

7 plants within 100 km, 988 MW combined

Nearest plant: El Dorado Hydro Elk Creek (30.3 km)

Location

Coordinates:: 45.243900, -116.700800
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Hells Canyon is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1372 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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