Poechos Hydro-Electric Power Plant - Peru

Overview

The Poechos I Hydroelectric Power Plant, positioned in the North-western Department of Piura, Peru, is a testament to sustainable energy and innovative water management. With an impressive installed capacity of 15.2 MW, it's projected to generate 57,740 MWh annually. Notably, this project will actively displace 31,463 tCO2e emissions per year.

A prominent feature is its utilization of the existing Poechos dam, which was initially constructed between 1971 and 1974 solely for irrigation. This dam, spanning a length of approximately 1,000 m and standing at 48 m in height, plays a crucial role in the project's operations. The water released from this dam is judiciously used for the project, ensuring the needs of the Chira River and Miguel Checa Canal, as well as agricultural priorities, are maintained. Furthermore, the project's connectivity to the National Electric Grid (SEIN) through a dedicated substation is an indication of its significance to Peru's national energy strategy.

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Why did we choose this project?

  1. Sustainable Energy and Emission Reduction: The Poechos I Project serves a dual purpose. It aids the SEIN in reducing its reliance on thermal power plants, which traditionally depend on heavy fuel, diesel, coal, and natural gas. This switch ensures a considerable reduction in GHG emissions while offsetting expensive energy generation methods.

  2. Community Development and Local Economy Boost: The project has been pivotal in creating job opportunities by employing local labor for construction and plant management. It further contributes to Peru's fiscal accounts via tax payments and promotes a balanced hydrocarbon trade by cutting down on oil imports meant for electricity generation. Additionally, the project enhances the regional educational landscape and offers specialized technical training opportunities.

  3. Water Management and Accessibility: The project not only ensures the purification and cleaning of water for agricultural irrigation but also prioritizes the sustainable use of water. By balancing energy generation and agricultural water needs, the Poechos I Project showcases an efficient water management system. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in meeting local electricity demands, making it pivotal for regional development.