Chicoasén Dam, Embankment dam and hydroelectric power station on the Grijalva River, Chiapas, Mexico
Chicoasén Dam is an embankment dam in Mexico that holds back water for power generation. The facility houses eight turbines that convert flowing water into electricity for regional use.
The dam was constructed between 1974 and 1980 and became a major project for Mexico's power supply. It addressed engineering challenges posed by the region's difficult terrain.
The dam received its name from Manuel Moreno Torres, who led the Federal Electricity Commission of Mexico during the 1950s.
The site is best viewed from elevated vantage points, so plan to look from higher ground. Daytime visits work well since sunlight highlights the structure and the surrounding landscape.
The dam's eight Francis turbines include three 310 MW units ordered in 2000 and running by 2005, alongside five original 300 MW generators from 1980. The concrete columns and yellow-edged deck visible below the rock face carry water to this plant, which made Chicoasén Mexico's largest hydroelectric station.
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