What is the primary water use of Folsom Lake?

Folsom Lake serves several important functions, but its primary water use is for hydroelectric power generation. The lake is part of the Central Valley Project and plays a crucial role in generating renewable energy. The water stored in Folsom Lake is released through the Folsom Dam, where it drives turbines to produce electricity. This helps to meet the energy demands of the surrounding areas, making it a vital resource for clean power generation.

While flood control, agricultural irrigation, and domestic water supply are also important uses of the lake's water, hydroelectric power generation stands out as the primary function due to the lake's design and operational priorities within the regional water management system. The emphasis on generating renewable energy aligns with broader goals of sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Thus, Folsom Lake's role in hydroelectric power generation is critical in supporting both local energy needs and environmental objectives.