The Smithland hydroelectric facility is a 76 MW run-of-the-river hydroelectric power plant providing renewable generation to the region. The plant is located near Smithland, Kentucky.
The Smithland Hydroelectric Plant diverts water from the existing Corps Smithland Locks and Dam through bulb turbines to generate an average annual output of approximately 379 million kilowatt-hours (kWh). The site includes an intake approach channel, a reinforced concrete powerhouse and a tailrace channel. The powerhouse contains three horizontal bulb-type turbine and generating units with an estimated total rated capacity of 76 MW at a gross head of 22 feet. A 2-mile-long 161 kV transmission line interconnection is planned to connect to MISO.
Smithland is located approximately 62 river miles upstream of the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, in Livingston County, Ky.
Participation
AMP developed the Smithland Hydroelectric Plant on behalf of 79 participating member communities as part of the AMP Phase 1 Hydroelectric Project, which also includes the Cannelton and Willow Island plants. The Central Virginia Electric Cooperative is also participating in the project.
Construction
Excavation and cofferdam construction began in 2010 and powerhouse construction began in 2011. The plant reached full commercial operation in August 2017.