Hydroelectricity

Hydroelectricity can play an important role in a future powered by renewable energy. Coupling hydroelectricity with wind power, for example, is an innovative way to ensure a significant and stable source of renewable electricity when needed.

Large hydro dams can be used as a ‘battery’ that allows water to be stored when wind-generated electricity is at its peak, and to release this water to produce electricity when it is needed.

The state of Oregon couples wind power with hydroelectricity, providing a practical solution to manage the intermittent nature of renewable resources such as wind.

The case for low-impact hydroelectricity

Large hydroelectric facilities have historically caused significant environmental damage including reservoir flooding, sedimentation, destruction of fish and wildlife habitats and greenhouse gas emissions.

Small-scale hydroelectric development requires comparatively little physical space while only occasionally causing more local ecosystem damage than natural flooding, drought and erosion rates present before building the plant.

Economic benefits

In Ontario alone, the hydroelectric industry currently generates $1.7 billion in annual energy production, and supports 3.600 jobs in the province.

Many new hydroelectric facilities can be located in parts of Canada currently facing economic hardship and chronic underemployment. Small, low-impact hydroelectric facilities in particular are well suited for community development purposes because they create employment, increase economic activity and strengthen local energy security.

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