Overview
Revelstoke is a 2,480 MW hydroelectric power plant in British Columbia, Canada, operated by BC Hydro. It is one of the largest hydroelectric facilities in the province.
Revelstoke is a major hydroelectric power plant located in British Columbia, Canada, with a capacity of 2,480 megawatts (MW). Operated by BC Hydro, it is one of the largest hydroelectric facilities in the province and plays a critical role in the regional power grid. The plant harnesses the energy of the Columbia River, contributing significantly to Canada's renewable energy portfolio. The facility operates under Canada's federal and provincial environmental regulations, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and British Columbia's Clean Energy Act. Hydroelectric power is a low-carbon energy source, and Revelstoke's large capacity positions it as a key asset in reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based generation. The plant uses conventional hydroelectric technology, with turbines driven by water flow from the Revelstoke Dam. Revelstoke provides clean, reliable electricity to millions of residents and industries in British Columbia. Its operation supports grid stability and enables the integration of intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar. The plant's location in a mountainous region also offers opportunities for recreational activities and tourism around the reservoir, balancing energy production with community benefits.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Revelstoke has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The reservoir created by the dam alters river habitats and may impact fish populations. However, BC Hydro implements environmental management plans to mitigate these effects, including fish passage facilities and flow management. The plant's large capacity means it displaces significant fossil fuel generation, contributing to regional air quality improvements.
Frequently asked questions
The Revelstoke hydroelectric power plant is located in British Columbia, Canada, on the Columbia River. Its coordinates are approximately 51.0486° N, -118.1939° W.
Revelstoke has a generating capacity of 2,480 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest hydroelectric facilities in British Columbia.
The Revelstoke hydroelectric plant is operated by BC Hydro, the primary electric utility in British Columbia, Canada.
Hydroelectric plants in Canada are subject to federal regulations such as the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and the Fisheries Act, as well as provincial regulations like British Columbia's Clean Energy Act and Water Sustainability Act.
Hydroelectric power is a low-carbon energy source, but it can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change water quality. Mitigation measures like fish ladders and environmental flow releases are often implemented to reduce these impacts.