Smith Mountain Combination Pump Storage is a public utility facility located in Pittsylvania, Virginia, along the Roanoke River.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1964, this hydroelectric plant features an impressive arch dam standing at 229 feet in height, with a storage capacity of 1,150,000 acre-feet. The dam's multi-arch design and rock foundations ensure its structural integrity, making it a reliable source of renewable energy for the region.
Owned and operated by a public utility, Smith Mountain Combination Pump Storage is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and undergoes regular inspections to maintain its high hazard potential rating. With a maximum discharge rate of 50,000 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 200 feet, the facility is equipped to handle significant water flow during peak demand periods. The dam's moderate risk assessment rating indicates a proactive approach to risk management, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the operation.
Located just 26 miles from Altavista, Virginia, Smith Mountain Combination Pump Storage plays a crucial role in the state's energy infrastructure. With its innovative combination pump storage technology, this facility serves as a model for sustainable energy production and climate resilience. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the ingenuity and environmental impact of this hydroelectric powerhouse in the heart of the Roanoke Valley.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
816 |
Dam Height |
229 |
River Or Stream |
Roanoke |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Surface Area |
20400 |
Hydraulic Height |
205 |
Drainage Area |
1024 |
Nid Storage |
1150000 |
Structural Height |
237 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
237 |
Pigg River Near Sandy Level
|
112cfs |
Goose Creek Near Huddleston
|
56cfs |
Roanoke River At Altavista
|
618cfs |
Blackwater River Near Rocky Mount
|
56cfs |
Big Otter River Near Evington
|
101cfs |
Back Creek Near Dundee
|
19cfs |