Cowans Ford Hydroelectric Station, Hydroelectric power station near Huntersville, North Carolina.
Cowans Ford Hydroelectric Station is a power generation facility along Lake Norman near Huntersville. The station operates four Kaplan turbines that convert flowing water into electricity for thousands of homes across North Carolina.
Duke Energy built this facility between 1959 and 1963, transforming the area into a major power source for North Carolina. The creation of the large reservoir during this period fundamentally changed how the region supplied electricity to its growing population.
The station plays a central role in the area, with the reservoir serving as a gathering place where locals swim, fish, and enjoy water activities throughout the year.
The grounds are accessible to visitors, though some operational areas have restricted access for safety reasons. It helps to arrive early and explore the walking paths around the shoreline, which are freely available and clearly marked.
The facility does more than just generate power; it controls water levels to prevent flooding and ensure a steady water supply to neighboring communities. This role as a water manager makes it a crucial piece of regional infrastructure beyond electricity production.
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