[gridlock]

So, why does the US restrict discharge temperature? I realize the design is much simpler if you can just dump 120 degree F water back into the river. From an engineering point of view, it is no-brainer. But are there actual environmental impacts that are worth avoiding?

Of course, you are rejecting heat to either the river or the atmosphere, so which has the greater impact?

[Pontiac]

So, why does the US restrict discharge temperature? I realize the design is much simpler if you can just dump 120 degree F water back into the river. From an engineering point of view, it is no-brainer. But are there actual environmental impacts that are worth avoiding?

In my experience living on Lake Erie near several power plants with hot water discharge pipes in to the lake, some of the best fishing is on or near those hot water discharges.

[Robert A Cook PE]

See answer above (Nbr 20)