Pine Portage stands as a noteworthy facility in Canada's renewable energy landscape, ranking #226 out of 1,334 power generation facilities nationwide. With a capacity of 144 MW, it plays a modest but essential role in the hydroelectric sector, where it ranks #122 among the 612 hydro plants in the country. This position underscores its significance in a nation where hydroelectric power is the dominant energy source, representing approximately 0.07% of Canada's total generation capacity of 193,190 MW. Located at coordinates 49.3074, -88.3103, Pine Portage is strategically situated near several other hydro facilities, including Cameron Falls (92 MW), Alexander (69 MW), and Namewaminikan (10 MW). Together, these plants contribute to a robust local energy cluster, enhancing regional grid stability and capacity. In contrast, the nearby Black Bay 2, a solar facility with a mere 1 MW capacity, highlights the predominance of hydro power in the vicinity. This geographical context reinforces Pine Portage's role as a vital component of the local energy supply. Canada’s energy profile heavily favors hydroelectricity, and Pine Portage's contribution, while small, is part of a larger effort to harness renewable resources for sustainable growth. The plant is operated by a consortium of energy stakeholders, emphasizing a collaborative approach to energy generation that aligns with Canada's environmental goals. Commissioned in an era of increasing awareness of climate change, Pine Portage stands as a testament to the country's commitment to green energy. As the demand for clean energy continues to rise, the significance of facilities like Pine Portage will only grow, helping to pave the way for a more sustainable energy future in Canada.
26 years old
Canada, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
Canada- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Hydro power generation utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity. This renewable energy source operates primarily through the use of hydroelectric power plants, which are strategically placed on rivers or in locations where water flow is significant. The fundamental principle behind hydro power generation is relatively straightforward: water stored in a reservoir is released, flowing through turbines that convert the water's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then transformed into electrical energy through generators. The effectiveness of hydro power plants largely depends on the height from which water falls, known as the 'head,' and the volume of water flowing through the turbines, referred to as the 'flow rate.' Together, these factors determine the total energy output of the plant. Globally, there are approximately 7,842 hydro power plants distributed across 128 countries, with a total installed capacity of about 1,288.5 gigawatts (GW). China leads the world in hydro power generation, boasting 989 plants with a capacity of 279.9 GW. Other notable countries include Brazil with 756 plants (119.4 GW), the United States with 1,491 plants (110.2 GW), Canada with 612 plants (102.4 GW), and Madagascar, which, despite having only five plants, has a significant capacity of 91.1 GW. The extensive network of hydroelectric facilities underscores the importance of this energy source in the global power generation landscape. The advantages of hydro power generation are numerous. It is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for electricity production. Hydro power plants typically have low operational costs once established, and they can be adjusted to meet fluctuating electricity demands, providing reliable baseload power. Additionally, hydroelectric plants contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation, thereby aiding in climate change mitigation efforts. However, hydro power is not without its disadvantages. The construction of large dams can lead to significant ecological and social disruptions, including the displacement of communities and alterations to local ecosystems. The creation of reservoirs can flood vast areas of land, impacting wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Moreover, hydro power generation is highly dependent on climatic conditions; droughts can significantly reduce water availability, thereby compromising electricity output. In recent years, global trends indicate a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, with hydro power continuing to play a pivotal role. Many countries are investing in modernizing existing hydroelectric plants to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Innovations such as small-scale hydro systems, which have a reduced ecological footprint, are gaining traction, especially in regions where large-scale projects may be infeasible. Looking ahead, the future of hydro power generation appears promising yet complex. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the availability of water resources for hydroelectric generation may become increasingly unpredictable. This necessitates a balancing act between harnessing hydroelectric potential and protecting the environmental and social integrity of affected regions. Continued advancements in technology and design, alongside a commitment to sustainable practices, will be crucial for the evolution of hydro power in the global energy mix. With its significant capacity and established infrastructure, hydro power remains a cornerstone of the renewable energy landscape, poised to contribute to a sustainable future.
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.