United States of America

Walter Bouldin Dam— 225 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

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As a significant player in the hydroelectric sector, the Walter Bouldin Dam stands out with a capacity of 225 MW, ranking #1288 among the 10,047 power generation facilities in the United States. This facility is also positioned as the 91st largest hydro plant out of 1,469 in the country, a notable distinction considering the U.S. energy landscape is predominantly fueled by natural gas. The dam, commissioned in 1967 and operated by Alabama Power Co, contributes a mere 0.02% to the nation's total capacity of 1,386,385 MW. The plant's hydroelectric technology harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water, transforming it into electricity, a process that not only supports local energy needs but also aligns with increasing calls for sustainable energy practices. Located near several gas-powered facilities, including the E B Harris Electric Generating Plant, which boasts a capacity of 1,304 MW, and the Hillabee Energy Center at 822.8 MW, the Walter Bouldin Dam plays a critical role in an area dominated by fossil fuels. This proximity to larger gas plants underscores the importance of hydro energy as a reliable complement to gas and other energy sources in stabilizing the regional grid. Despite its smaller share of the national capacity, the dam's operational longevity and technical efficiency highlight its value in a diversifying energy mix. With its strategic location along the Coosa River, the plant not only provides essential energy but also contributes to economic activities and environmental stewardship in the region. Looking ahead, the Walter Bouldin Dam exemplifies the essential balance needed as the U.S. energy sector increasingly pivots toward more sustainable practices.