Overview
Portneuf-2 (Chute Phillias) is a 11.7 MW hydroelectric power plant in Quebec, Canada, operated by Innergex. It generates renewable electricity from the Portneuf River.
Portneuf-2 (Chute Phillias) is a hydroelectric power plant located in Quebec, Canada, with a capacity of 11.7 MW. The facility is owned and operated by Innergex (Société en Commandite)/Innergex Inc and is currently operational. It harnesses the flow of the Portneuf River to generate clean electricity, contributing to Canada's renewable energy portfolio. Hydroelectric power is a well-established technology in Canada, which has abundant water resources. The plant operates under federal and provincial regulations, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and Quebec's environmental standards. Run-of-river or reservoir-based hydro projects typically have low greenhouse gas emissions but may affect local aquatic ecosystems. The plant's output is relatively small compared to large hydro facilities, but it plays a role in regional energy supply. Innergex is a major independent renewable power producer in Canada, and this plant supports the company's portfolio of clean energy assets. The facility's operation aligns with Canada's goals to increase renewable energy generation and reduce carbon emissions.
Environmental context
The plant's hydroelectric generation produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, making it a low-carbon energy source. However, the construction and operation of hydro facilities can alter river flow, affect fish migration, and impact local habitats. The Portneuf River region in Quebec is characterized by boreal forests and wildlife, and the plant's small scale likely minimizes ecological disruption. Proximity to populated areas is limited, reducing local air quality concerns.
Frequently asked questions
Portneuf-2 (Chute Phillias) is located in Quebec, Canada, on the Portneuf River. Its coordinates are approximately 48.6548 N, -69.1762 W.
The plant has a capacity of 11.7 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned and operated by Innergex (Société en Commandite)/Innergex Inc, a major Canadian renewable energy company.
Hydroelectric plants in Canada are regulated under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, the Fisheries Act, and provincial water management laws. They must obtain permits for water use and environmental assessments.
Hydroelectric power produces no direct air emissions but can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change water flow. Small run-of-river plants like Portneuf-2 typically have lower environmental impact than large reservoir projects.