Overview
Chute-à-la-Savane is a 258 MW hydroelectric power plant in Quebec, Canada, owned by Rio Tinto Alcan. It supplies renewable energy to support industrial operations.
Chute-à-la-Savane is a hydroelectric power plant located in Quebec, Canada, with a capacity of 258 MW. Owned by Rio Tinto Alcan, the facility is operational and contributes to the region's renewable energy portfolio. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses the power of flowing water to generate electricity, aligning with Canada's abundant hydropower resources. The plant operates under Canada's federal and provincial regulatory frameworks, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and Quebec's environmental regulations. Hydroelectric power is a well-established technology in Canada, with plants typically ranging from small run-of-river to large reservoir projects. The 258 MW capacity places Chute-à-la-Savane in the medium-to-large scale category for hydroelectric facilities. The facility plays a key role in supporting Rio Tinto Alcan's aluminum smelting operations, providing a reliable and low-carbon energy source. Its location in Quebec leverages the province's extensive hydroelectric infrastructure, contributing to the local grid and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The plant's operation supports both industrial activity and regional energy security.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel plants, but can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's location in Quebec, a province with stringent environmental oversight, ensures compliance with measures to mitigate ecological impacts. The facility's operation supports renewable energy goals while balancing environmental stewardship.
Frequently asked questions
Chute-à-la-Savane is located in Quebec, Canada, at coordinates 48.7536 N, -71.8395 W.
Chute-à-la-Savane has a capacity of 258 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-to-large hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned by Rio Tinto Alcan, a major aluminum producer, and supplies power to their industrial operations.
Hydroelectric plants in Canada are regulated under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and provincial laws, including water management and environmental assessment requirements.
Hydroelectric power produces low greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, but requires careful management of water resources and aquatic habitats.