Run-of-River

Running river water is directed into an intake and passes through a powerhouse into a water turbine, which spins an electrical generator to make electricity. After passing through the turbine, the water flows back into the river. This technology is very well developed and common. Depending on the topography, a small to medium-sized dam may be used to create the drop in water elevation at the site.

Run-of-river hydro projects are typically small but have two advantages: a) they do not flood large areas and b) the river’s flow is not materially changed. Consequently, a well-developed run-of-river project has low environmental impact. In addition, opportunities exist to enhance various aspects of the local environment, including spawning areas for local fish populations.

Northland's Kabinakagami River projects have received a power purchase agreement under the Ontario Power Authority's FIT Program.