Hydroelectric

Run-of-river encompasses hydroelectric projects that require no dam, reservoir or flooding to generate electricity – the natural flow and elevation of a river are used to create power.  A portion of the water from a fast-moving river is diverted into a penstock or pipe that channels it to a turbine then back to the river leaving enough of the existing flow to support environmental values.

• Run-of-river projects have a much smaller environmental footprint than traditional reservoir storage hydro projects.
• Project developers work closely with local communities and First Nations stakeholders, to thoroughly consider all their environmental, economic, and social concerns.
• Run-of-river projects require over 50 permits, licenses, approvals and reviews from over a dozen government agencies before they can be built.

Click here for the run-of-river fact sheet of Independent Power Producers Association of BC.