Almus Dam and Hydroelectric Power Plant

Almus Dam and Hydroelectric Power Plant is a Tokat structure located in the Almus district of important province in Türkiye, on the Yeşilırmak River. Dam was constructed for both electricity generation and agricultural irrigation. The Almus Dam, built as an earthfill dam, has contributed to the region’s hydroelectric power production while expanding irrigation areas and providing flood control.

Almus Dam (TRT News)

History and Construction

The construction of Almus Dam was first proposed in the 1950s to prevent frequent hello floods in the region. Following a major flood disaster in 1951, studies conducted by the State State Hydraulic Works (DSİ) led to the decision to build a dam to control the flow of the Yeşilırmak River. The dam’s foundation was laid in 1957 and it was completed and opened for service in 1966. The opening ceremony was performed by then Prime Minister Süleyman Demirel.

Technical Specifications

• Dam Type: Zoned earthfill
• Embankment Volume: 3,405,000 m³
• Height above Riverbed: 78 m
• Reservoir Area: 31.3 km²
• Storage Capacity: 950 million m³
• Irrigation Area: 21,350 hectares
• Hydroelectric Power Plant Capacity: 27 MW (3 units)
• Annual Electricity Generation: 99 GWh

Energy Production and Economic Contribution

The hydroelectric power generated at Almus Dam meets a significant portion of Tokat province’s energy needs. The dam has an annual electricity generation capacity of approximately 99 GWh, sufficient to meet the annual electricity demand of 25,232 people.

Agricultural Irrigation and Fisheries

In addition to electricity generation, Almus Dam serves a large irrigation area. It provides water to 21,350 hectares of farmland, boosting regional agricultural production and contributing to the local region economy. Furthermore, the reservoir offers a suitable environment for fisheries activities and is also used for trout production.

Environmental and Climatic Impacts

In recent years, droughts have significantly affected the water level of Almus Dam. Particularly in 2014 and 2017, hydroelectric power generation decreased by 33% and 37% respectively. This situation highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management.

Current Status

Almus Dam continues to be of vital importance to the region for both energy production and agricultural irrigation. However, due to drought, significant drops in water levels have occurred over time, negatively affecting both agricultural output and electricity generation.

Almus Dam and Hydroelectric Power Plant is one of Türkiye’s key projects in the fields of energy and agricultural irrigation. Protecting and active managing water resources is critical to the dam’s sustainability. In the future, monitoring changes in water levels and implementing measures against climate change will play a major importance in preserving the region’s economic and ecological balance.