Overview
Belly River is a 3 MW hydroelectric power plant in Canada, owned by TransAlta. It generates renewable electricity from hydropower.
Belly River is a hydroelectric power plant located in Canada, with an operational capacity of 3 megawatts. The facility is fully owned by TransAlta, a major Canadian power generation company. As a small-scale hydroelectric plant, it contributes to the region's renewable energy portfolio. Hydroelectric plants like Belly River operate by converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity. In Canada, hydroelectric power is a dominant source of electricity, supported by federal and provincial regulations that promote clean energy. The plant's small capacity suggests it may serve local or community-scale needs rather than large grid supply. The environmental significance of Belly River lies in its low-carbon footprint, as hydropower produces minimal direct emissions. However, hydroelectric projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's location in a rural area likely reduces its impact on populated regions.
Environmental context
The Belly River plant operates in a region with abundant water resources, typical for hydroelectric generation in Canada. Its small capacity minimizes large-scale ecological disruption, but local impacts on fish migration and river flow may occur. The facility's renewable nature aligns with Canada's clean energy goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Frequently asked questions
The Belly River hydroelectric plant is located in Canada, with coordinates approximately 49.3150° N, -113.5743° W.
The Belly River hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 3 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale facility.
The Belly River hydroelectric plant is wholly owned by TransAlta, a major Canadian power generation company.
Hydroelectric plants in Canada are subject to federal and provincial regulations, including environmental assessments under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and water management laws.
Hydroelectric power generation produces low direct emissions but can affect aquatic ecosystems, water flow, and fish migration. Small-scale plants like Belly River typically have localized impacts.