The installation of a small hydroelectric power station at the Valmayor reservoir north-west of Madrid is helping the local water supply company reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut CO2 emissions. Electricity is generated from the cycle of water discharges from the reservoir’s dam and is harnessed by company Canal de Isabel II for part of its own energy needs.
Mini hydroelectric power station uses water from Madrid reservoir to produce clean, green energy
- 29 May 2019
This project contributes to the strategic plan of our company for the generation and use of renewable energy and energy improvement, with the aim of moving towards a low carbon economy.
The project provided for the purchase and installation of the power station machinery along with the construction of a building to house the new facilities. The station is capable of generating enough energy to supply the equivalent of 600 homes every year. It reduces emissions of CO2 by around 627 tonnes/year and helps improve air quality for local residents.
Innovative technologies
The power plant generates an estimated 2.54 GWh of electricity every year through a maximum 672 kW output. The clean energy system includes a number of innovative technical elements that make it possible to efficiently generate electricity from small water flows. For example, power frequency controllers are installed with the electric power generators that feed the discharge waters into the power station. Moreover, the construction and operation of the power station does not affect the provision of water to the public.
Efforts were taken to minimise the environmental impact of the project by using the existing Valmayor dam structure, which was built in the 1970s. Additionally, the building constructed to house the power station was designed with a rounded cover so its profile fits unobtrusively into the local landscape.
Project legacy
Canal de Isabel II is using the experience it has gained through this project to plan similar green-energy schemes at other reservoirs and company facilities.
By substituting conventional energy supply with renewables in public infrastructures and waste water treatment systems, the project contributes to the Community of Madrid’s energy improvement plan. The objectives are in line with the EU’s 2020 Strategy for climate change and energy sustainability and its drive to develop a low-carbon economy by 2050.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Construction of a mini-hydroelectric power station project in the Valmayor reservoir” is EUR 6 575 978, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 3 287 989 through the “Madrid ERDF” Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Low-carbon economy”.