Zimapán Dam, Hydroelectric power station in Hidalgo, Mexico.
Zimapán Dam is an arch dam built across the Moctezuma River, with a curved design that spreads water pressure evenly to support electricity generation. Two Pelton turbine-generators process water flowing through the facility to produce power.
Construction began in 1990 with funding from the World Bank as part of Mexico's infrastructure expansion in that decade. The project represented a major step in developing power generation capacity for the region.
The region around the dam changed significantly over recent decades as communities relocated and reorganized their lives near the new reservoir. Visitors can still observe the marks of this transformation in how settlements are arranged along the water's edge.
The location sits in a mountainous region with limited public access since it remains an active industrial facility. Check ahead to see if tours are available, and wear appropriate clothing for the terrain.
Water travels through a 21-kilometer tunnel before reaching the power station, bypassing a much longer natural river path. This engineering solution makes the water flow more efficient for electricity production.
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