5 Facts You Must Know About Canada’s No. 1 Electricity Source: Hydropower

Below are five interesting facts about hydropower in Canada:

1. Hydropower is renewable and clean.

Hydropower collects energy from flowing or falling water, converting it into electrical power without wasting water. It produces no GHGs (greenhouse gases) and does not create any air pollutants.

In Canada, hydropower projects undergo an extensive environmental assessment to mitigate, minimize, or avoid any adverse effects on the surrounding environment.

Converting about 90% of usable energy, hydropower is a sustainable source of electricity.

2. There is more hydropower potential beyond Canada.

Electricity demand continues to progress in Canada, the US, and all over the globe because of economic growth and population. More electric vehicles could be in demand in the future. Canada’s potential can meet future needs while minimizing air pollutants and GHGs.

All regions in Canada have hydroelectric power resources ready for use and development. Moreover, hydropower can support other renewable resources, such as solar and wind power, integrated into the power mix.

3. Supplying 60% of Canada’s electricity, hydropower is a crucial element to the country’s economy.

The clean energy that hydropower provides to Canadians promotes the development of industry, infrastructure, commerce, and communities.

Hydropower projects will benefit Canadians with over a hundred billion investments and millions of jobs in the coming years.

As Canada meets its demands, it is an energy exporter, exporting renewable and clean electricity to the US.

4. Hydropower continues to prove itself as a cutting-edge technology after over a hundred years of existence.

Every hydropower plan is tailored depending on the need of a specific site. Canada is a leader worldwide in hydropower technology, and new innovative technologies are being tested to improve the performance, flexibility, and efficiency of hydroelectric generation.

Moreover, hydropower developers in Canada are experts in climate modeling and weather technologies to ensure that present and future projects can function amidst unpredictable weather.

5. Hydropower benefits all communities.

The hydropower sector works hand in hand with communities in planning, constructing, and implementing projects. That is to ensure that aboriginal and local communities benefit from these projects by opening an opportunity for employment, business, and revenues.