World Power Plants

Keowee Power Plant157.6 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

The Keowee Power Plant, another remarkable facility within the United States, ranks 1618th among the 10,047 power generation facilities, showcasing a capacity of 157.6 MW. This hydroelectric plant, operated by Duke Energy since its commissioning in 1971, is a vital contributor to the regional energy landscape of South Carolina. With a hydroelectric rank of 133 out of 1469 hydro plants in the nation, the Keowee Power Plant embodies the potential of renewable energy in a country where gas dominates the energy profile. Utilizing advanced hydropower technology, the Keowee facility harnesses the natural flow of water from the Keowee River to generate clean electricity. This method not only contributes to reducing carbon emissions but also promotes efficient water resource management. The plant’s proximity to a cluster of significant energy facilities enhances its importance in maintaining grid reliability. Nearby, the Oconee Nuclear Station and an additional Oconee facility each produce 2666.7 MW, underscoring the region's heavy reliance on nuclear power. Additionally, the Bad Creek Hydro Plant, with an impressive capacity of 1296 MW, and Jocassee Hydro Plant at 774 MW, further demonstrate the area's commitment to renewable energy sources. Hartwell Lake Hydro Plant, generating 420 MW, complements this hydroelectric landscape. In the broader context of the United States' energy profile, which features a total capacity of 1,386,385 MW distributed across 10,047 plants, Keowee's contribution may seem minimal, accounting for only 0.01% of the national capacity. However, its role in promoting sustainable energy generation is increasingly significant, particularly as the country shifts toward cleaner energy sources. The reliance on gas as the dominant fuel emphasizes the necessity for integrating renewable energy facilities like Keowee, facilitating a balanced and sustainable energy future. Duke Energy’s commitment to providing reliable energy is reflected in the continued operation of the Keowee Power Plant since its inception. As the energy landscape evolves, the facility will remain a crucial part of South Carolina's energy generation mix. Its hydroelectric capabilities not only support local energy needs but also contribute to the national goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering a cleaner environment. The Keowee Power Plant exemplifies how traditional energy sources can coexist with renewable technologies to create a sustainable energy future.

Capacity
157.6 MW
Commissioning Year
1971

55 years old

Owner
Duke Energy
Location
34.7982°, -82.8872°

United States of America, North America

Context & rankings
  • 1,669. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
  • #8,234 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,724 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.01% of the installed capacity of United States of America
Age & fleet comparison

55 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Duke Energy operates 26 plants totalling 17,613 MW

Regional density

68 plants within 100 km, 13,835 MW combined

Nearest plant: Oconee Nuclear Station (1.1 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 34.798211, -82.887242
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Keowee Power Plant is a hydro power plant producing approximately 552 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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