Overview

The Shogawa Goguchi Dam is a gravity dam located on the Shō River in Shogawa, Toyama Prefecture, Japan. It serves as a key component of the regional hydroelectric infrastructure, housing an associated power station with an installed capacity of 23.4 MW. The structure is the furthest downstream of the nine dams situated along the Shō River system, marking the final stage of hydraulic control and energy generation for this specific watercourse in the region.

Construction of the dam took place between 1934 and 1939. The associated hydroelectric power station was commissioned in two distinct stages. The initial commissioning occurred in December 1939, shortly after the main structural works were completed. A second stage of commissioning followed in March 1967, indicating subsequent expansions or modifications to the power generation facilities. The facility remains operational, continuing to contribute to the energy output of Toyama Prefecture.

History

The construction of the Shogawa Goguchi Dam represents a significant engineering effort on the Shō River in Toyama Prefecture, Japan. The project was initiated in 1934 and concluded in 1939, resulting in the creation of a gravity dam structure. This facility is the furthest downstream of the nine dams located on the Shō River system. The construction period spanned five years, reflecting the logistical and technical requirements of building a major hydroelectric infrastructure project in the region during the late 1930s.

Initial Commissioning

The hydroelectric power station associated with the Shogawa Goguchi Dam was not commissioned all at once. The initial phase of the power generation facility became operational in December 1939, shortly after the completion of the dam structure. This first stage of commissioning allowed for the immediate utilization of the water resource for power generation, contributing to the regional energy supply. The initial commissioning marked the beginning of the dam's long-term operational history, establishing it as a key component of the local hydroelectric network.

Second Stage Expansion

Following the initial commissioning, the power station underwent a second stage of development. This expansion was completed in March 1967, significantly enhancing the facility's capabilities. The two-stage commissioning process allowed for a gradual integration of the power station into the grid, accommodating technological advancements and increasing energy demands over the decades. The total installed capacity of the hydroelectric power station is 23.4 MW, which was achieved through these sequential commissioning phases. The 1967 expansion ensured that the Shogawa Goguchi Dam remained a relevant and efficient energy source well into the late 20th century.

The operational status of the Shogawa Goguchi Dam remains active, continuing to serve as a vital part of the Shō River's hydroelectric infrastructure. The dam's longevity, spanning from its initial construction in the 1930s through its expansion in the 1960s and beyond, underscores the durability and strategic importance of gravity dam designs in Japan's energy landscape. The facility continues to harness the water flow of the Shō River, contributing to the renewable energy mix of Toyama Prefecture.

Why it matters

The Shogawa Goguchi Dam holds a distinct position within the hydroelectric infrastructure of Toyama Prefecture, Japan, primarily due to its strategic location on the Shō River. It is the furthest downstream of the nine dams that characterize this specific river system. This geographic positioning is not merely incidental; it defines the dam's operational role within the broader energy network of the region. As the terminal structure in a sequence of nine hydraulic installations, the Shogawa Goguchi Dam serves as a critical node for managing water flow and energy generation at the lower reaches of the Shō River basin.

The dam’s significance is rooted in its long-standing contribution to the regional power grid. Constructed between 1934 and 1939, the facility represents an early phase of modern hydroelectric development in Japan. The associated hydroelectric power station, with an installed capacity of 23.4 MW, was commissioned in two distinct stages: December 1939 and March 1967. This phased commissioning reflects the evolving energy demands of Toyama Prefecture during the mid-20th century. The initial commissioning in 1939 established the dam as a foundational element of the local energy infrastructure, while the later expansion in 1967 demonstrates its continued relevance and adaptability to changing grid requirements.

As a gravity dam, the Shogawa Goguchi Dam utilizes its mass and weight to resist the upstream water pressure, a design choice that has ensured its operational status for over eight decades. Its location in Shogawa, Toyama Prefecture, places it in a region known for its mountainous terrain and significant river systems, which are ideal for hydroelectric exploitation. The presence of nine dams on the Shō River indicates a highly developed hydroelectric corridor, where each dam plays a specific role in optimizing water usage and power generation. The Shogawa Goguchi Dam, being the most downstream, likely benefits from the cumulative flow regulated by the upstream structures, enhancing its efficiency and output consistency.

The dam’s role extends beyond mere electricity generation. It contributes to the stability of the regional power supply, providing a reliable source of renewable energy for Toyama Prefecture. In an era where energy infrastructure is increasingly scrutinized for its efficiency and sustainability, the Shogawa Goguchi Dam stands as a testament to the enduring value of well-planned hydroelectric projects. Its continued operation, despite being commissioned nearly a century ago, underscores the robustness of its design and the strategic foresight of its planners.

Furthermore, the Shogawa Goguchi Dam serves as a case study in the integration of hydroelectric infrastructure within a dense network of dams. The coordination required to manage nine dams on a single river system highlights the complexity of regional energy planning. The dam’s position as the furthest downstream means it must account for the flow variations and operational schedules of the eight upstream dams, making it a critical component in the overall management of the Shō River’s hydroelectric potential.

In summary, the Shogawa Goguchi Dam is more than just a structure on the Shō River; it is a key element of Toyama Prefecture’s energy landscape. Its historical significance, technical design, and strategic location all contribute to its enduring importance. As the furthest downstream of nine dams, it plays a vital role in the region’s hydroelectric infrastructure, providing a reliable and sustainable source of power for the local community. Its continued operation into the 21st century is a testament to the effectiveness of early 20th-century engineering and the ongoing value of hydroelectric energy in Japan.

Technical Specifications

As the furthest downstream of the nine dams located on the Shō River, it plays a specific role in the regional hydroelectric infrastructure. The structure was constructed between 1934 and 1939, utilizing gravity dam engineering principles to manage water flow and generate power.

The dam is associated with a hydroelectric power station with an installed capacity of 23.4 MW. The commissioning of this power station occurred in two distinct stages. A second phase of commissioning took place in March 1967, indicating an expansion or modernization of the generating capabilities several decades after the initial construction.

Key Parameters

Parameter Value
Dam Type Gravity Dam
River Shō River
Location Shogawa, Toyama Prefecture, Japan
Capacity 23.4 MW
Construction Period 1934–1939
Commissioning Dates December 1939; March 1967
Operational Status Operational
Relative Position Furthest downstream of nine dams on the Shō River

Geographic Context

The Shogawa Goguchi Dam is located in the municipality of Shogawa, within Toyama Prefecture, Japan. Its precise geographic coordinates are 36.575277777778° N, 136.99555555556° E. This placement situates the infrastructure firmly within the Chūbu region of central Honshu, an area characterized by significant hydrological resources that have historically supported regional energy production. The dam serves as a critical component of the local water management and power generation network, leveraging the natural topography of the Toyama basin to harness hydraulic energy.

Position within the Shō River System

The structure is built directly on the Shō River, a vital watercourse in the prefecture. The Shō River hosts a series of nine distinct dams, creating a cascading system of reservoirs and flow regulation points. The Shogawa Goguchi Dam holds a specific positional significance within this sequence: it is the furthest downstream of the nine dams on the river. This downstream location implies that the water passing through the Goguchi Dam has already been regulated or utilized by the eight upstream structures, making its operational dynamics unique within the broader riverine infrastructure.

The construction of the dam spanned from 1934 to 1939, a period of significant industrial development in Japan. As a gravity dam, its structural integrity relies on its mass to resist the horizontal force of the water, a design choice well-suited to the geological conditions of the Shō River valley. This two-phase commissioning reflects the evolving energy demands of the region and the technical adaptations made to optimize the output of the downstream-most facility. The dam remains operational, continuing to contribute to the energy mix of Toyama Prefecture and demonstrating the longevity of early 20th-century hydraulic engineering in Japan.

What distinguishes this dam from others on the Shō River?

The Shogawa Goguchi Dam occupies a unique position within the hydraulic infrastructure of the Shō River basin. It is identified as the furthest downstream dam among the nine dams that constitute the river's system. This geographical placement distinguishes it from the other structures located further up the catchment area. The dam is a gravity-type structure, a common engineering solution for hydroelectric projects in Japan, particularly those constructed during the early to mid-20th century. Its location in Shogawa, Toyama Prefecture, places it at the terminal point of the primary dam sequence on the river.

The operational characteristics of the Shogawa Goguchi Dam are influenced by its downstream position. As the last dam in the chain, it likely manages the cumulative flow from the upstream reservoirs. This power plant was commissioned in two distinct stages. The initial commissioning occurred in December 1939, coinciding with the completion of the dam's construction period which ran from 1934 to 1939. A second commissioning phase took place in March 1967, suggesting an expansion or modernization of the power generation facilities.

The construction timeline of the Shogawa Goguchi Dam places it among the earlier major hydroelectric developments in the region. The period from 1934 to 1939 saw significant infrastructure investment in Japan. The gravity dam design relies on the weight of the structure to resist the horizontal force of the water. This design is robust and suitable for the geological conditions of the Shō River valley. The dam's role in the nine-dam system is critical for flow regulation and power generation. Its downstream location means it benefits from the regulated inflow from the upstream dams, which can optimize turbine efficiency.

The Shō River system includes nine dams, each contributing to the overall water management and energy production of the region. The Shogawa Goguchi Dam's position as the furthest downstream unit gives it a specific function in the sequence. It likely serves as the final control point before the water continues its course or enters a larger body of water. The 23.4 MW capacity is a substantial contribution to the local grid, especially considering the era of its initial construction. The 1967 commissioning stage indicates that the facility was updated to meet growing energy demands or to incorporate newer turbine technologies.

The historical context of the dam's construction is important. The 1930s were a period of industrial growth in Japan, with hydroelectric power being a key driver. The Shogawa Goguchi Dam was part of this broader trend. Its construction between 1934 and 1939 reflects the engineering capabilities of the time. The gravity dam type was well-suited for the Shō River's topography. The dam's longevity, remaining operational since 1939, is a testament to the quality of its construction and maintenance. The two-stage commissioning of the power station shows a phased approach to maximizing the hydroelectric potential of the site.

In summary, the Shogawa Goguchi Dam is distinguished by its location as the furthest downstream dam on the Shō River. This position influences its operational role within the nine-dam system. The dam's gravity design and 23.4 MW capacity are key features. Its construction from 1934 to 1939 and the two-stage commissioning in 1939 and 1967 highlight its historical and technical significance. The dam continues to operate, contributing to the energy infrastructure of Toyama Prefecture. Its role in the Shō River system is integral, managing the flow from upstream dams and generating power for the region.

Operational History

The Shogawa Goguchi Dam, located on the Shō River in Shogawa, Toyama Prefecture, Japan, serves as the furthest downstream of the nine dams situated along this specific river system. As a gravity dam, its structural design relies on its own weight to resist the horizontal force of the water, a common engineering approach for hydroelectric infrastructure in the region. The operational history of this power station is characterized by a distinct two-stage commissioning process, reflecting the evolving demands for energy and the technological adjustments made over nearly three decades.

Initial Commissioning in 1939

Construction of the Shogawa Goguchi Dam commenced in 1934 and concluded in 1939, a relatively swift five-year period for major civil engineering works of that era. The first stage of the hydroelectric power station was officially commissioned in December 1939, marking the initial integration of the dam into the regional power supply network. This initial phase likely established the foundational hydraulic infrastructure, including the penstocks and the primary turbine hall, enabling the conversion of the Shō River's kinetic energy into electrical power. The timing of this commissioning, at the close of the construction period, suggests that the initial design was optimized for the immediate energy needs of Toyama Prefecture in the late 1930s. This early operational phase provided a baseline for the dam's performance, allowing engineers to monitor water flow variability and structural stability under real-world conditions before any significant expansions were undertaken.

Second Stage Expansion in 1967

The second stage of the power station's commissioning occurred in March 1967, nearly 28 years after the initial launch. This later addition implies a strategic decision to enhance the generating capability of the Shogawa Goguchi Dam to meet growing regional demand or to incorporate more efficient turbine technology available in the mid-20th century. The gap between the two commissioning dates highlights a phased development approach, where the initial infrastructure was leveraged to support a subsequent expansion without requiring a complete overhaul of the gravity dam structure itself. The total installed capacity of the station is recorded as 23.4 MW, a figure that represents the combined output of the facilities commissioned in both 1939 and 1967. This two-stage development model is notable for its adaptability, allowing the hydroelectric plant to remain operationally relevant across different economic periods in Japan's post-war industrial growth. The continued operational status of the Shogawa Goguchi Dam underscores the durability of its gravity design and the sustained value of the Shō River as a renewable energy source.

Frequently asked questions

When was the Shogawa Goguchi Dam constructed?

The Shogawa Goguchi Dam was constructed between 1934 and 1939. The construction period spanned five years, concluding with the initial commissioning of the associated hydroelectric power station in December 1939. The facility has remained operational since its initial completion, making it a long-standing feature of the local energy infrastructure in Toyama Prefecture.

What is the installed capacity of the Shogawa Goguchi Dam?

This capacity was established during the initial commissioning phase in December 1939. The power station underwent a second stage of commissioning in March 1967, which likely involved expansions or technical upgrades to the facility, though the primary capacity figure remains cited as 23.4 MW. The dam utilizes water from the Shō River to generate this electricity.

Where is the Shogawa Goguchi Dam located?

It is situated in the Chūbu region of Honshu island. The dam is a gravity-type structure, relying on its weight to resist the force of the water. It is one of nine dams located along the Shō River system, serving as a key component of the regional hydroelectric network.

Is the Shogawa Goguchi Dam the largest or most upstream dam on the Shō River?

The Shogawa Goguchi Dam is not the most upstream dam on the Shō River; rather, it is the furthest downstream of the nine dams located on the river. While it is a significant gravity dam with a 23.4 MW capacity, its position at the lower end of the river system distinguishes it from the other eight dams situated further up the Shō River. This downstream location is a key geographic characteristic of the facility.

Summary

The facility is operational and holds the distinction of being the furthest downstream of the nine dams situated along the Shō River basin. Construction of the dam commenced in 1934 and was completed in 1939, establishing it as a significant early 20th-century engineering project in the region.

The initial commissioning took place in December 1939, shortly after the structural completion of the dam. These dates mark the operational milestones for the facility, which continues to contribute to the energy grid of Toyama Prefecture.

As a gravity dam, the Shogawa Goguchi Dam relies on its own weight to resist the force of the water held back by the structure. This design is typical for dams of its era and location, providing stability and durability for long-term operation. The dam's position as the most downstream of the nine dams on the Shō River highlights its strategic role in the river's overall water management and energy production system. The Shō River, flowing through Toyama Prefecture, benefits from this infrastructure for both hydroelectric power generation and potential flood control, although the primary documented function is energy production with a capacity of 23.4 MW.

The historical context of the Shogawa Goguchi Dam places it within the broader development of Japan's hydroelectric resources during the interwar period. The construction timeline from 1934 to 1939 reflects the engineering efforts and resource allocation of that era, leading to a facility that has remained in service for decades. The dual commissioning dates of 1939 and 1967 suggest an evolution in the dam's operational capacity, adapting to the changing energy demands of the region. Today, the Shogawa Goguchi Dam stands as a testament to early hydroelectric engineering in Japan, continuing to operate as a functional part of the country's renewable energy infrastructure.

See also