World Power Plants

The Jaybird hydroelectric power generation facility, with a capacity of 161.6 MW, ranks as the 1597th largest plant in the United States, contributing a modest 0.01% to the country's staggering 1,386,385 MW total capacity. Operated by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District and commissioned in 1961, Jaybird harnesses the energy of flowing water through its hydro technology, making it a key player in renewable energy generation. Located in an area rich with hydroelectric infrastructure, Jaybird finds itself in close proximity to several other significant plants, including the White Rock/Slab Creek facility, which boasts a capacity of 266.5 MW, and the Camino plant at 157.8 MW. This cluster of hydro facilities enhances the reliability and efficiency of the regional grid, as they collectively leverage the abundant water resources. Despite being overshadowed by larger nearby plants, Jaybird plays an essential role within the local energy ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of diversifying energy sources in a country where gas remains the dominant fuel. With 10047 total plants across the nation, the hydro sector, while smaller in share, remains vital for sustainable energy goals. As the US increasingly focuses on renewable energy, Jaybird's continued operation represents a commitment to harnessing natural resources responsibly and efficiently, contributing to a greener future.

Capacity
161.6 MW
Commissioning Year
1961

65 years old

Owner
Sacramento Municipal Util Dist
Location
38.8340°, -120.5318°

United States of America, North America

Context & rankings
  • 1,648. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
  • #8,136 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,683 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.01% of the installed capacity of United States of America
Age & fleet comparison

65 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Sacramento Municipal Util Dist operates 14 plants totalling 2,096 MW

Regional density

134 plants within 100 km, 6,319 MW combined

Nearest plant: Camino (0.7 km)

Location

Coordinates:: 38.834000, -120.531800
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Jaybird is a hydro power plant producing approximately 566 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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