Overview
Slave Falls is a 68 MW hydroelectric power plant in Manitoba, Canada. It is operational and contributes to the region's renewable energy grid.
Slave Falls is a hydroelectric power plant located in Manitoba, Canada, with a capacity of 68 megawatts. As a renewable energy facility, it plays a role in the province's clean energy portfolio, which is dominated by hydropower. The plant operates under Canadian federal and provincial regulations, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and Manitoba's water power licensing framework. Hydroelectric plants like Slave Falls typically use run-of-river or reservoir-based technology, with low operational emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. Slave Falls contributes to the local grid by providing reliable, low-carbon electricity. Its location in a sparsely populated area reduces direct environmental impact on communities, while its operation supports Canada's goals for renewable energy generation.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Slave Falls has a low carbon footprint but may affect local aquatic ecosystems through water flow changes and habitat alteration. The facility's location in a forested region of Manitoba means it operates in an area with significant biodiversity, requiring careful management of water levels and fish passage. Compared to thermal plants, hydroelectricity avoids air pollutant emissions, but reservoir creation can lead to methane release in some cases.
Frequently asked questions
Slave Falls is located in Manitoba, Canada, at coordinates 50.2221° N, -95.5687° W.
Slave Falls has a capacity of 68 megawatts, making it a medium-sized hydroelectric facility.
Slave 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 water power acts, requiring environmental assessments and water use licenses.
Hydroelectric plants produce low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter aquatic habitats, affect fish migration, and change water quality. Proper management mitigates these impacts.