Spillway of a hydro electric dam in the Rocky Mountains of Canada
Canada’s massive hydro potential to remain elusive
Despite its southern neighbour seeking new sources of low-carbon power, further expansion of Canadian hydropower is unlikely to be competitive
The Canadian government views the Biden administration’s plan to achieve a carbon-free grid by 2035 as opening the door to substantially greater hydropower exports to the US, with environment minister Jonathan Wilkinson referring to it as “a big economic opportunity” in February. Canada is the second largest hydropower producer in the world, with 81GW of installed capacity and the potential to more than double that figure, according to Ottawa-based trade group Waterpower Canada. Canadian hydro accounts for 60pc of national electricity generation, while also holding significant market share in several US regions: 17pc of New England, 12pc of Midwest states and 5pc of New York. “Many of
Also in this section
30 November 2023
Negative pricing has become more frequent in European energy markets, and GB markets are now experiencing a similar increase
29 November 2023
Preparations underway for inclusion of cement, aluminium and steel producers in world’s largest compliance market by 2030
28 November 2023
European Commission earmarks cross-border projects for funding and fast-tracks carbon management strategy as pressure grows to kickstart CCS sector
27 November 2023
Progress in decarbonisation but significant challenges lie ahead
