Atatürk Dam
One of the largest power plants in Turkey
Location
History & Background
Commissioned in 1992, Atatürk Dam is a hydro power plant located in Turkey with an installed capacity of 2.4 GW. It is operated by EUAS. By installed capacity, it ranks among the top 5 power plants in Turkey.
Why It Matters
Atatürk Dam is a critical piece of Turkey's electricity infrastructure, producing enough power for approximately 841,960 US-equivalent households per year. Hydroelectric facilities are dispatchable: their output can be ramped up and down quickly to match grid demand, which makes them especially valuable for balancing the rest of the system.
Environmental Impact
Atatürk Dam produces effectively zero operating-stage emissions, displacing roughly 8.4 million tonnes of CO2 per year compared to a coal-equivalent. Large hydroelectric projects do reshape rivers and ecosystems: they trap sediment, alter water temperatures downstream, and can block fish migration. The size of these impacts varies dramatically by site.
Fun Facts
- One of the 10 largest power plants in Turkey.
- Produces enough electricity to power roughly 841,960 US-equivalent households per year at typical capacity factor.
- Has been operating for 34 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much power does Atatürk Dam produce?▾
Atatürk Dam has an installed nameplate capacity of 2.4 GW. At typical capacity factors for hydro plants (~42%), this produces enough electricity for approximately 841,960 US-equivalent households per year.
Where is Atatürk Dam located?▾
Atatürk Dam is located in Turkey at approximately 37.4833°, 38.3500°.
When was Atatürk Dam built?▾
Atatürk Dam was commissioned in 1992.
Who owns Atatürk Dam?▾
Atatürk Dam is owned and operated by EUAS.
About Hydroelectric Power
Hydroelectric power plants use the kinetic energy of flowing or falling water to generate electricity. They are renewable, produce no direct emissions, and can provide reliable baseload power or flexible peaking capacity.
Other Power Plants in Turkey
| Name | Type | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| ⚡Afşin-Elbistan Power Station | Coal | 2.8 GW |
Related Reading
Data Information
Data Sources
Power plant data is based on the Global Power Plant Database by World Resources Institute, in collaboration with Google, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Enipedia, and the Global Energy Observatory.
Disclaimer
Information found on this page is for informational purposes only. Power plant specifications, ownership, and operational status may have changed since the data was last updated. Please verify critical information with official sources.