It was constructed to generate hydroelectricity and prevent flooding of the Kentucky River but is better known for creating Herrington Lake.

Dix Dam was built to create a reservoir for operating a hydroelectric generating station.

The dam also helped mitigate flooding on the Kentucky River by holding water in Herrington Lake during critical periods.

[2] Dix Dam was constructed by Kentucky Utilities, a private corporation prior to the Great Depression.

[3] Kentucky Utilities' systems control center has been located inside the Dix Dam plant since the 1920s.

During periods of high demand, the combustion turbines can be started and come to full load in just 30 minutes.