World Power Plants

Morrow Point Dam Powerhouse173.2 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

Ranked as the 1531st largest power generation facility in the United States, the Morrow Point Dam Powerhouse is a significant hydroelectric plant with a capacity of 173.2 MW. This facility, commissioned in 1970 and operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, contributes a mere 0.01% to the nation’s extensive capacity of 1,386,385 MW across 10,047 plants. As the 117th largest hydroelectric facility in the country, Morrow Point Dam Powerhouse demonstrates the essential role of hydropower amidst a predominantly gas-powered energy landscape. Utilizing the natural flow of the Gunnison River, the Morrow Point Dam Powerhouse employs state-of-the-art hydroelectric technology to convert water flow into electricity efficiently. This not only provides a renewable source of energy but also supports local water management practices, showcasing a dual benefit for both energy generation and environmental stewardship. The facility is located within a notable cluster of hydroelectric plants, enhancing its relevance in the region's energy profile. Just a stone’s throw away, the Morrow Point plant matches its capacity at 173.2 MW, while nearby facilities like the Blue Mesa (86.4 MW) and Crystal (28 MW) contribute to a diversified energy mix. This interconnected network of hydro resources ensures reliability and stability in power supply, particularly during peak demand periods. In the broader context of the United States' energy profile, where gas is the dominant fuel type, hydropower remains an essential component in diversifying the energy portfolio. Morrow Point Dam Powerhouse, while contributing a small percentage of national capacity, plays a critical role in supporting renewable energy goals and providing clean electricity to the grid. Looking forward, Morrow Point Dam Powerhouse is positioned to be a key player in the transition toward a more sustainable energy future. Its contributions to local energy needs and environmental initiatives underscore the importance of maintaining and expanding hydropower resources as the nation aims for a low-carbon economy. As demands for renewable energy sources continue to grow, this facility stands ready to adapt, ensuring its relevance in an evolving energy landscape.

Capacity
173.2 MW
Commissioning Year
1970

56 years old

Owner
U S Bureau of Reclamation
Location
38.4517°, -107.5392°

United States of America, North America

Context & rankings
  • 1,582. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
  • #7,928 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,628 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.01% of the installed capacity of United States of America
Age & fleet comparison

56 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

U S Bureau of Reclamation operates 59 plants totalling 15,054 MW

Regional density

12 plants within 100 km, 330 MW combined

Nearest plant: Crystal (10 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 38.451687, -107.539189
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Morrow Point Dam Powerhouse is a hydro power plant producing approximately 607 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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