Overview
Wawaitin is a 15 MW hydroelectric power plant in Ontario, Canada, operated by Umh Energy Partnership. It contributes to the region's renewable energy supply.
Wawaitin is a hydroelectric power plant located in Ontario, Canada, with a generating capacity of 15 megawatts. The facility is owned and operated by Umh Energy Partnership, a joint venture between Ontario Power Generation Inc and Umh Energy Inc. As a hydroelectric plant, it harnesses the energy of flowing water to produce electricity, supporting the province's clean energy grid. The plant operates under Canada's federal and provincial regulatory frameworks, which include the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and Ontario's Environmental Protection Act. Hydroelectric facilities in Canada are subject to water management and fish habitat protection regulations. The 15 MW capacity places Wawaitin in the small-scale hydro category, typical for run-of-river or small reservoir projects in the region. Wawaitin plays a role in Ontario's diversified electricity mix, contributing renewable energy to the provincial grid. Its operation supports local energy needs while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. The facility's location in northern Ontario reflects the region's abundant water resources and history of hydropower development.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems through changes in water flow and fish migration. In Ontario, hydro projects must comply with environmental assessments and water-taking permits to mitigate ecological effects.
Frequently asked questions
Wawaitin is located in Ontario, Canada, at coordinates 48.3472 N, -81.4806 W.
The Wawaitin hydroelectric plant has a generating capacity of 15 megawatts.
Wawaitin is owned and operated by Umh Energy Partnership, a joint venture between Ontario Power Generation Inc and Umh Energy Inc.
Hydroelectric plants in Canada must comply with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and provincial regulations such as Ontario's Environmental Protection Act, which govern water use, fish habitat, and environmental assessments.
Hydroelectric power has low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter water flow and affect aquatic ecosystems. Mitigation measures like fish ladders and environmental flow releases are often required.