Da Nhim, a hydroelectric power generation facility in Vietnam, ranks 98th among the nation’s 326 plants, boasting a capacity of 160 MW. Commissioned in 1964 and operated by the Da Nhim - Ham Thuan - Da Mi Hydropower JSC, this facility represents a small yet significant fraction of Vietnam's extensive energy landscape, contributing to just 0.20% of the country’s total capacity of 78,648 MW. Despite its modest share, Da Nhim is notable for its role in the hydro power sector, where it ranks 48th among 230 hydro plants nationwide. Utilizing hydroelectric technology, Da Nhim capitalizes on the natural flow of water to generate electricity, aligning with Vietnam's commitment to renewable energy sources. The facility is part of a vibrant energy cluster, surrounded by several other plants within a 50 km radius, including Phước Nam Solar (330 MW), Nhà máy Thủy điện Đại Ninh (300 MW), and Dai Ninh (300 MW). This regional concentration of diverse energy sources enhances the reliability and stability of the local grid, enabling a balanced energy mix that supports both renewable and traditional power generation. Vietnam's energy profile is characterized by a dominant reliance on hydroelectric power, with a substantial number of plants contributing to the national grid. The presence of Da Nhim in this context is essential, as it supports the country's efforts to harness its abundant water resources for sustainable energy production. Comparatively, the average capacity of plants in Vietnam stands at around 241 MW, making Da Nhim's 160 MW capacity slightly below this average. However, its contribution to the hydro sector remains invaluable in balancing the energy mix. The ownership by Da Nhim - Ham Thuan - Da Mi Hydropower JSC signifies a long-term investment in the region’s energy infrastructure. Since its commissioning nearly six decades ago, Da Nhim has played a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of both local communities and the broader Vietnamese economy. Looking forward, Da Nhim's significance is set to grow as Vietnam continues to expand its renewable energy initiatives. The facility is poised to contribute to the country’s goals of increasing renewable energy share in the national grid, particularly as Vietnam invests in sustainable energy sources to combat climate change and ensure energy security.
62 years old
Vietnam, Asia
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
Vietnam- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Hydro power generation utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity. This renewable energy source operates primarily through the use of hydroelectric power plants, which are strategically placed on rivers or in locations where water flow is significant. The fundamental principle behind hydro power generation is relatively straightforward: water stored in a reservoir is released, flowing through turbines that convert the water's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then transformed into electrical energy through generators. The effectiveness of hydro power plants largely depends on the height from which water falls, known as the 'head,' and the volume of water flowing through the turbines, referred to as the 'flow rate.' Together, these factors determine the total energy output of the plant. Globally, there are approximately 7,842 hydro power plants distributed across 128 countries, with a total installed capacity of about 1,288.5 gigawatts (GW). China leads the world in hydro power generation, boasting 989 plants with a capacity of 279.9 GW. Other notable countries include Brazil with 756 plants (119.4 GW), the United States with 1,491 plants (110.2 GW), Canada with 612 plants (102.4 GW), and Madagascar, which, despite having only five plants, has a significant capacity of 91.1 GW. The extensive network of hydroelectric facilities underscores the importance of this energy source in the global power generation landscape. The advantages of hydro power generation are numerous. It is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for electricity production. Hydro power plants typically have low operational costs once established, and they can be adjusted to meet fluctuating electricity demands, providing reliable baseload power. Additionally, hydroelectric plants contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation, thereby aiding in climate change mitigation efforts. However, hydro power is not without its disadvantages. The construction of large dams can lead to significant ecological and social disruptions, including the displacement of communities and alterations to local ecosystems. The creation of reservoirs can flood vast areas of land, impacting wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Moreover, hydro power generation is highly dependent on climatic conditions; droughts can significantly reduce water availability, thereby compromising electricity output. In recent years, global trends indicate a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, with hydro power continuing to play a pivotal role. Many countries are investing in modernizing existing hydroelectric plants to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Innovations such as small-scale hydro systems, which have a reduced ecological footprint, are gaining traction, especially in regions where large-scale projects may be infeasible. Looking ahead, the future of hydro power generation appears promising yet complex. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the availability of water resources for hydroelectric generation may become increasingly unpredictable. This necessitates a balancing act between harnessing hydroelectric potential and protecting the environmental and social integrity of affected regions. Continued advancements in technology and design, alongside a commitment to sustainable practices, will be crucial for the evolution of hydro power in the global energy mix. With its significant capacity and established infrastructure, hydro power remains a cornerstone of the renewable energy landscape, poised to contribute to a sustainable future.
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