Overview
Taylor Coulee is a 12.7 MW hydroelectric power plant in Alberta, Canada, operated by Canadian Hydro Developers. It harnesses water flow to generate renewable electricity for the regional grid.
Taylor Coulee is a hydroelectric power plant located in Alberta, Canada, with an operational capacity of 12.7 megawatts. Owned by Canadian Hydro Developers, the facility is part of Canada's diverse renewable energy portfolio, contributing to the country's clean power generation. The plant operates as a run-of-river hydroelectric facility, utilizing natural water flow without significant storage. In Canada, hydroelectric projects are regulated under provincial and federal environmental assessments, with Alberta's Renewable Electricity Act supporting such developments. The 12.7 MW scale classifies it as a small-to-medium hydro plant, typical for regional or community-level power supply. As a renewable energy source, Taylor Coulee produces no direct CO2 emissions during operation, supporting Canada's climate goals. Its location in southern Alberta provides reliable water resources, and the facility plays a role in local grid stability and rural electrification. The plant's long operational life and low environmental footprint underscore its value in the region's energy mix.
Environmental context
Taylor Coulee's hydroelectric operation avoids fossil fuel combustion, resulting in negligible SOx, NOx, and CO2 emissions. Its run-of-river design minimizes ecological disruption compared to large reservoir projects. The facility's location in Alberta's agricultural landscape requires careful management of water flow to support downstream ecosystems and irrigation needs.
Frequently asked questions
Taylor Coulee is located in Alberta, Canada, near the coordinates 49.3336 N, -112.8871 W.
Taylor Coulee has an installed capacity of 12.7 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-to-medium hydroelectric facility.
Taylor Coulee is owned by Canadian Hydro Developers, a company specializing in renewable energy projects across Canada.
Hydroelectric plants in Canada are subject to provincial and federal environmental assessments, water rights, and renewable energy policies. In Alberta, the Renewable Electricity Act and Alberta Utilities Commission oversee such projects.
As a hydroelectric plant, Taylor Coulee generates electricity without direct greenhouse gas emissions, supporting Canada's clean energy transition and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.