Overview
Marches-Naturelles is a 4.2 MW hydroelectric power plant in Quebec, Canada, operated by Boralex Inc. It contributes to the region's renewable energy capacity.
Marches-Naturelles is a hydroelectric power plant located in Quebec, Canada, with an installed capacity of 4.2 MW. The facility is owned and operated by Boralex Inc., a major player in renewable energy in Canada. As a small-scale hydroelectric plant, it plays a role in the local energy mix, supporting the province's clean energy goals. The plant operates under Canada's federal and provincial regulatory frameworks, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and Quebec's Regulation respecting the quality of the atmosphere. Hydroelectric power is a low-emission technology, and facilities like Marches-Naturelles benefit from long operational lifespans and minimal fuel costs. The plant's capacity places it in the small-scale category for hydroelectric generation. Marches-Naturelles contributes to the stability of the local grid by providing renewable baseload power. Its operation aligns with Quebec's strategy to expand hydroelectric capacity and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The plant's environmental footprint is relatively low, with no direct emissions during operation, though it may have localized impacts on aquatic ecosystems typical of run-of-river hydro projects.
Environmental context
The plant's hydroelectric generation produces no direct air emissions, contributing to low CO2 and pollutant footprints. However, the facility may affect local aquatic habitats and flow regimes, typical of run-of-river hydro projects. Its location in Quebec, a province with abundant hydro resources, means it operates within a well-regulated environmental framework that includes water management and fish passage requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Marches-Naturelles is located in Quebec, Canada, at coordinates 46.8941 N, -71.1587 W.
The plant has an installed capacity of 4.2 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned and operated by Boralex Inc., a Canadian renewable energy company.
Hydroelectric plants in Canada must comply with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, provincial water management laws, and species-at-risk legislation. Quebec also enforces the Regulation respecting the quality of the atmosphere for emissions during construction.
As a renewable hydroelectric plant, it provides low-carbon electricity to the grid, supporting Canada's goal of increasing clean energy generation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.