Research on Hydro Power Usage

Castiac Hydro Power

A Graphic Case Study

Castaic Hydropower Plant (CHP) is a product of terraforming, conservation, hydrologic, and energy systems. Located at the terminus of the West Branch of the California Aqueduct, the CHP water source crosses Kerns and LA County. Man made reservoirs, dams, pumps, and canals overcome steep elevation, and fault lines to engage the movement of water across the state to capture potential energy. 

Forty miles  and 1300 feet above Los Angeles, this pump-storage hydropower plant on average supplies up to 10 hours of peak power capacity.  At peak power, volumes water translate to higher value.  Water flows through a 30’ diameter pipe from Pyramid Lake to feed the penstocks and turbines at the plant. Later during off-peak periods, economically available energy (coal or gas) powers the reversible turbines to pump water 1000’ above Castaic’s Elderberry forebay back to Pyramid Lake. 

These components exhibit ecological, regulatory, and hydrological negotiations that generate yet another array distinctive ecologies. For example, new schedules for dredging, stocking fish, irrigation management, and recreation zones each with their own set of obligations and responsibilities that support a local and regional ecosystem.