United States of America

Lewis Smith Dam— 181 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Jul 2026

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Ranked as the 1494th largest power generation facility in the United States, the Lewis Smith Dam stands out within Alabama's energy landscape with its 181 MW hydroelectric capacity. This facility not only contributes to the local grid but showcases the importance of renewable energy sources in a state where gas dominates the energy mix. Commissioned in 1961 and operated by Alabama Power Co, Lewis Smith Dam represents a significant investment in sustainable energy infrastructure, producing clean energy that aligns with growing environmental concerns. Hydro power accounts for only 1.3% of Alabama's total generation capacity, which is substantially influenced by the 1,386,385 MW capacity generated by 10,047 plants across the nation. In this context, Lewis Smith Dam holds a modest but vital role, contributing approximately 0.01% to the national capacity. Its hydroelectric output stands in stark contrast to the nearby James H Miller Jr plant, which produces a considerable 2822 MW via coal, highlighting the diverse energy portfolio in the region. Other nearby facilities include Sloss Industries Corp and ABC Coke, both utilizing gas and contributing smaller capacities of 25 MW and 3.8 MW respectively. This mixture of energy sources paints a picture of a region still heavily reliant on fossil fuels, despite the clean energy potential embodied by Lewis Smith Dam. Its strategic location along the Coosa River not only allows it to harness hydro power effectively but also plays a crucial role in balancing the grid in the face of fluctuating energy demands. The facility's continued operation underscores the potential for hydroelectric power to complement the existing energy framework, particularly as the country seeks to transition towards more sustainable practices. In light of the national energy narrative, the Lewis Smith Dam's contributions, however small in percentage, symbolize a step towards diversification and resilience in Alabama's energy future.