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Alto Lindoso Dam

The Alto Lindoso Dam (Portuguese: Barragem do Alto Lindoso) is a significant structure located on the Lima River in the municipality of Ponte da Barca, within Portugal. This impressive piece of engineering is a concrete double curvature arch dam, noted for its role in renewable energy production within the country.

Construction and Specifications

The dam was constructed to harness the hydroelectric potential of the Lima River, a river originating in Spain and flowing into Portugal. The construction of the Alto Lindoso Dam was completed in 1992, marking a significant development in Portugal's infrastructure and energy production capabilities. It stands as one of the tallest structures in the country.

Hydroelectric Power Station

The Alto Lindoso Dam houses the largest hydroelectric power station in Portugal, with an impressive installed capacity of 630 MW. This power station plays a crucial role in Portugal's energy landscape, contributing extensively to the country's commitment to sustainable and renewable energy sources. The dam's reservoir also serves as a lower reservoir for the Touvedo Dam pumped-storage power plant, highlighting its role in energy storage and management.

Environmental and Social Impact

The creation of the Alto Lindoso Dam led to the submersion of several villages, including the ghost town of Aceredo in Galicia, Spain. Such changes have sparked discussions on the environmental and social impacts of large-scale dam projects. The reservoir created by the dam has altered local ecosystems but also provided opportunities for water management and supply in the region.

Related Topics

The Alto Lindoso Dam remains a key element in Portugal's energy infrastructure, showcasing the balance between technological advancement and environmental consideration. Its existence underscores the complexity and necessity of integrating sustainable practices in modern energy systems.