Overview
Crystal Falls is a hydroelectric power plant in Ontario, Canada, with a capacity of 8 MW. It is an operational facility contributing to the region's renewable energy supply.
Crystal Falls is a hydroelectric power plant located in Ontario, Canada, with an operational status and a capacity of 8 megawatts. As a small-scale hydro facility, it plays a role in the local renewable energy landscape, harnessing water flow for electricity generation. The plant operates under Canada's federal and provincial regulatory frameworks, which include the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and Ontario's Green Energy Act. Hydroelectric plants like Crystal Falls typically use run-of-river or reservoir-based technology, with low carbon emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. The 8 MW capacity places it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric generation. Environmentally, hydroelectric power is a low-carbon energy source, but its ecological footprint includes potential impacts on aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. Crystal Falls contributes to Ontario's renewable energy mix, supporting grid stability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Its location in a region with abundant water resources underscores its role in sustainable power generation.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation, as at Crystal Falls, has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic habitats and water flow. The facility's small scale (8 MW) minimizes landscape alteration compared to large dams. In Ontario, hydro plants are subject to environmental assessments and water management regulations to mitigate ecological impacts.
Frequently asked questions
Crystal Falls is located in Ontario, Canada, at coordinates 46.4501° N, -79.8629° W.
Crystal Falls has a capacity of 8 megawatts, classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Crystal Falls is a hydroelectric power plant, using water flow to generate electricity.
Hydroelectric plants in Canada are regulated under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and provincial laws like Ontario's Green Energy Act, which set standards for environmental assessments and water management.
As a hydroelectric plant, Crystal Falls generates low-carbon electricity, supporting Ontario's renewable energy goals and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.