Chile

Rapel Dam — 378 MW Hydroelectric

Hydroelectric Renewable Verified

Rapel Dam is a 378 MW hydro power plant located in Chile. View location, capacity, and technical details.

Capacity
378 MW

Installed

Commissioned
1994

Year online

Owner
Enel Generación Chile

Operator

Location
-34.04, -71.59

Coordinates

Insights

#22
largest in Chile
#925
largest Hydroelectric worldwide
#5,456
largest worldwide
1994
10 yrs newer than avg
10
operated by Enel Generación Chile
19
plants within 100 km

Technical Details

Fuel Type
Hydroelectric
Capacity
378 MW
Commissioned
1994
Status
Operational
Owner
Enel Generación Chile
Country
Chile
Coordinates
-34.041, -71.589
Wikipedia
Link

Estimated Carbon Footprint

Annual CO₂
31,788 t

tonnes / year

Lifetime CO₂
2,543,063 t

over ~80 yrs

Intensity
24 g

gCO₂ per kWh

Annual emissions equal to

6,910
cars / year
4,238
homes / year
1,444,922
trees to offset

Renewable source — life-cycle emissions only (materials/construction), no direct combustion. Open calculator

Nearby Stations

About this plant

The Rapel Dam, located in Chile, is a prominent hydroelectric power generation facility that significantly contributes to the nation’s energy landscape. With an impressive capacity of 378 MW, the dam harnesses the natural flow of the Rapel River to generate clean, renewable energy. Operated by Enel Generación Chile, the facility employs advanced hydroelectric technology that involves the use of a dam to store and regulate water flow, which in turn drives turbines to produce electricity. This sustainable method of energy generation aligns perfectly with Chile’s national goals of increasing renewable energy sources and reducing its carbon emissions. Positioned at coordinates -34.0414, -71.5886, the Rapel Dam is strategically situated to take advantage of the region’s hydrological resources, ensuring a reliable and consistent supply of electricity. The dam not only supports the local grid but also plays a critical role in stabilizing energy supply across the country, especially during peak demand periods. The significance of the Rapel Dam extends beyond its impressive capacity; it is a vital player in the national energy mix, helping to meet the growing electricity demands of urban areas while supporting Chile’s transition to a more sustainable energy future. The facility exemplifies Chile’s commitment to harnessing its rich natural resources for the benefit of its population, and it serves as a model for other countries seeking to invest in renewable energy technologies. As Chile continues to pursue ambitious energy policies focused on sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the Rapel Dam remains a key asset in this endeavor. Its operational excellence and commitment to renewable energy generation make it a cornerstone of Chile’s energy infrastructure, ensuring that the country can meet its energy needs while also prioritizing environmental responsibility.

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