Ontario Power Generation (OPG) will invest $1 billion over the next 20 years to refurbish 45 generating units across eight hydroelectric stations in eastern Ontario. The project aims to secure 1617MW of clean energy capacity, enough to power approximately 1.6 million homes, while also creating over 500 skilled jobs.
The eight hydro stations undergoing refurbishment are located in the Ottawa Valley and include Des Joachims (429 MW) and Chenaux (144 MW) on the Ottawa River. These stations, built in the 1950s, are part of Ontario’s post-World War II hydro expansion. Other stations to be upgraded are Arnprior, Barrett Chute, Mountain Chute, Stewartville, Chats Falls, and Otto Holden.
Once the upgrades are complete, the fleet is expected to generate an additional 100GWh of power annually, equivalent to powering more than 11,000 homes. This increase will be achieved with the installation of more efficient equipment.
“Hydropower remains unmatched in its reliability, durability, and flexibility. With proper maintenance and upkeep, these assets can produce clean, low-cost power for generations,” said Heather Ferguson, OPG’s Senior Vice-President of Business Development and Corporate Affairs.
OPG operates 66 hydro stations across Ontario, contributing 39% of its total electricity generation. Hydropower meets about 25% of the province’s electricity needs each year.
In addition to the Ottawa Valley upgrades, OPG is investing in other refurbishment projects across Ontario, including a $600-million overhaul at the R.H. Saunders Generating Station in Cornwall and planned work at the Sir Adam Beck I and II stations in Niagara Falls. These projects are part of a broader program to extend the life of 48 hydro stations while improving efficiency and increasing output in some cases.
