World Power Plants

With a notable capacity of 210.6 MW, Martin Dam ranks as the 1323rd power generation facility in the United States, within a vast network of 10,047 plants. This hydroelectric facility, which boasts a hydroelectric rank of 93rd among 1,469 hydro plants nationwide, plays a crucial role in the energy mix of Alabama, a state where natural gas is the predominant fuel. Commissioned in 1934, Martin Dam has stood the test of time, efficiently converting the energy from water into electricity using well-established hydro technology. The dam is strategically positioned within a 50 km radius of several other significant plants, including the Hillabee Energy Center, a gas facility with a capacity of 822.8 MW, and the Walter Bouldin Dam, which adds 225 MW to the region's hydro resources. This regional clustering of energy generation assets enhances grid reliability and resilience, while also providing diverse energy sources to meet growing demands. Martin Dam contributes a mere 0.02% to the national capacity, reflecting the competitive landscape of the U.S. energy sector, where a multitude of facilities ensures a steady supply. Managed by Alabama Power Company, the dam exemplifies the importance of hydroelectric power in stabilizing the region's energy needs. As the country transitions toward more sustainable energy practices, the operational history and ongoing contributions of Martin Dam will be crucial in fostering an energy landscape that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship.

Capacity
210.6 MW
Commissioning Year
1934

92 years old

Owner
Alabama Power Co
Location
32.6804°, -85.9114°

United States of America, North America

Context & rankings
  • 1,374. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
  • #7,217 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,418 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.01% of the installed capacity of United States of America
Age & fleet comparison

92 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Alabama Power Co operates 25 plants totalling 12,913 MW

Regional density

31 plants within 100 km, 12,216 MW combined

Nearest plant: Yates Dam (12 km)

Location

Coordinates:: 32.680400, -85.911400
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Martin Dam is a hydro power plant producing approximately 738 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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