Overview
Hagues Reach is a 4 MW hydroelectric power plant in Ontario, Canada. It contributes to the region's renewable energy capacity as a small-scale run-of-river facility.
Hagues Reach is a hydroelectric power plant located in Ontario, Canada, with a capacity of 4 MW. This small-scale facility operates as a run-of-river hydroelectric plant, harnessing the flow of local waterways to generate electricity. It is part of Canada's extensive hydroelectric infrastructure, which provides a significant portion of the country's renewable energy. The plant's 4 MW capacity places it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric generation. In Ontario, hydroelectric plants are regulated under provincial water management and energy policies, including the Ontario Water Resources Act and the Green Energy Act. The facility likely uses turbine technology typical of low-head hydroelectric installations, converting kinetic energy from flowing water into electrical power. As a renewable energy source, Hagues Reach contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based generation. Its operation supports local grid stability and provides clean electricity to the surrounding community. The plant's location in a water-rich region ensures a consistent fuel supply, aligning with Canada's commitment to sustainable energy development.
Environmental context
The plant's hydroelectric operation produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, making it a low-carbon energy source. However, small-scale hydro projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems through changes in water flow and fish passage. The facility's location in Ontario, a province with stringent environmental regulations, ensures compliance with water management and ecological protection standards. Its small capacity minimizes landscape alteration compared to large dams.
Frequently asked questions
Hagues Reach is located in Ontario, Canada, at coordinates 44.2752° N, -77.7954° W.
Hagues Reach has a capacity of 4 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Hagues Reach is a run-of-river hydroelectric plant, which uses the natural flow of water without significant storage, minimizing environmental impact.
Hydroelectric power in Canada is regulated at provincial and federal levels, including the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and provincial water management laws. Ontario specifically follows the Ontario Water Resources Act and the Green Energy Act.
Small hydro plants produce no direct air emissions, have a low carbon footprint, and can provide reliable renewable energy. They often have less ecological disruption than large dams, though local aquatic impacts are managed through regulatory oversight.