Mexico is a country rich in water resources, with its rivers providing essential support for hydroelectric power, irrigation, and water supply. The nation’s dams play a key role in energy production, agricultural development, and flood control. In this article, we take a closer look at the top 10 largest dams in Mexico, focusing on their power output, location, river, and capacity.
1. Chicoasén Dam (Manuel Moreno Torres)
- Location: Chiapas
- River: Grijalva River
- Power Output: 2,400 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 1.61 billion cubic meters
Chicoasén Dam, officially known as Manuel Moreno Torres, is the largest hydroelectric facility in Mexico. Located on the Grijalva River, this dam generates 2,400 MW of electricity, making it a major contributor to the country’s energy grid. It also supports water storage and irrigation for the surrounding region.
2. Malpaso Dam (Netzahualcóyotl)
- Location: Chiapas
- River: Grijalva River
- Power Output: 1,080 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 9.2 billion cubic meters
Malpaso Dam, also known as Netzahualcóyotl, is located on the Grijalva River and generates 1,080 MW of hydroelectric power. It is essential for energy production and water management in Chiapas, providing water for irrigation and helping to control flooding in the region.
3. Angostura Dam (Belisario Domínguez)
- Location: Chiapas
- River: Grijalva River
- Power Output: 900 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 17.8 billion cubic meters
Angostura Dam, or Belisario Domínguez, is one of the largest dams in Mexico by capacity. It generates 900 MW of electricity and creates a vast reservoir used for water supply and agricultural irrigation. The dam also contributes to flood control along the Grijalva River.
4. La Yesca Dam
- Location: Jalisco/Nayarit
- River: Santiago River
- Power Output: 750 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 2.4 billion cubic meters
La Yesca Dam is located on the Santiago River and is part of Mexico’s extensive hydroelectric system. With a power output of 750 MW, the dam provides electricity to the western part of the country and helps regulate the water flow of the Santiago River.
5. El Cajón Dam
- Location: Nayarit
- River: Santiago River
- Power Output: 750 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 5.2 billion cubic meters
El Cajón Dam, located on the Santiago River in Nayarit, generates 750 MW of power and is a key component of the country’s hydroelectric infrastructure. The dam supports water storage for agriculture and helps mitigate flooding during the rainy season.
6. Infiernillo Dam (Adolfo López Mateos)
- Location: Michoacán
- River: Balsas River
- Power Output: 1,120 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 12 billion cubic meters
Infiernillo Dam, also known as Adolfo López Mateos, is situated on the Balsas River and generates 1,120 MW of electricity. It provides water for agricultural irrigation and helps with flood control in the region, making it a critical asset for the local economy.
7. Zimapán Dam
- Location: Hidalgo/Querétaro
- River: Moctezuma River
- Power Output: 292 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 1.36 billion cubic meters
Zimapán Dam, located on the Moctezuma River, is a significant hydroelectric facility in central Mexico. It generates 292 MW of power and supplies water for irrigation and domestic use in the region. The dam’s reservoir also plays a role in regulating water flow and preventing floods.
8. Miguel Alemán Dam
- Location: Oaxaca
- River: Tonto River
- Power Output: 350 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 8 billion cubic meters
Miguel Alemán Dam, located on the Tonto River, provides 350 MW of hydroelectric power and is essential for irrigation and flood control in Oaxaca. The dam supports agriculture by storing water for dry seasons, ensuring a stable water supply for the region.
9. Peñitas Dam
- Location: Chiapas
- River: Grijalva River
- Power Output: 420 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 1.2 billion cubic meters
Peñitas Dam is the smallest of the major dams on the Grijalva River, but it still plays a crucial role in hydroelectric power generation with an output of 420 MW. It also provides water for irrigation and flood control, helping manage the flow of the Grijalva River system.
10. Temascal Dam (Miguel de la Madrid)
- Location: Oaxaca
- River: Tonto River
- Power Output: 350 megawatts (MW)
- Capacity: 5.9 billion cubic meters
Temascal Dam, also known as Miguel de la Madrid, is located on the Tonto River and generates 350 MW of electricity. The dam’s reservoir supports irrigation and water supply in Oaxaca, while also providing flood control during the rainy season.
Conclusion
Mexico’s largest dams are vital to the country’s infrastructure, providing clean energy, supporting agriculture, and managing water resources. With projects like Chicoasén, Malpaso, and Angostura, Mexico harnesses the power of its rivers to generate electricity and sustain its agricultural economy. These dams not only ensure a stable water supply for irrigation but also help with flood control and regional development. As Mexico continues to invest in hydroelectric power, these dams will remain crucial for the nation’s sustainable growth and energy independence.
