Small-Scale Hydro Power

Small hydroelectric plants represent a source of energy for existing power systems, and for remote, off-grid locations. In Canada, small hydroelectric plants are generally defined as those that produce between 1 MW and 50 MW. Nonetheless, the definition of a “small plant” can vary from one jurisdiction to another.

For reasons of size, cost, and the often negative environmental impact of large dams, hydroelectric production is increasingly turning to small plants. With small hydroelectric plants, there is no need to install elaborate or costly facilities, although there must be adequate water flow and fall height.

The Size of the Industry

• The industry is composed of fewer than 50 businesses, approximately a quarter of which are large public providers equipped with small hydroelectric plants.
• The industry involves component manufacturers, developers and consulting firms.
• It is difficult to assess the number of jobs, because of variation in the definition of the term “small plant.” Estimates suggest that the industry includes between 750 and 1000 jobs.
• Typical employment in the small hydroelectric plant industry (with the exception of administrative positions) is as follows, in decreasing order of prevalence:
• Small hydroelectric plant developer
• Research engineer or design consultant
• Small hydroelectric plant operator
• Maintenance engineering technician
• Manufacturing plant worker

Producing Energy at Small Hydroelectric Plants

• Small hydroelectric facilities are typically defined as those sites with a capacity of 30 MW or less. In Canada, there are slightly more than 300 of these facilities which account for approximately 3 percent (or 2,000 MW) of the country’s total 69,000 MW of hydroelectric facilities. According to Natural Resources Canada, an additional capacity of 2000 MW of small hydropower is economically viable.
• Generally, potential sites are studied for between one and five years before a choice can be confirmed.
• Because Canada has expertise to offer in the hydroelectric sector, manufacturers, and providers of services associated with small hydroelectric plants also export their services to foreign clients.
• Over the 1990s, some $100 million annually were injected into the Canadian economy through small hydroelectric plants in the areas of manufacturing and service. In addition, between 30 MW and 50 MW; are added each year to the country’s electricity supply.
• A considerable number of small hydroelectric plants are run-of-river stations, which means that they use small dams that retain water for no more than a day. This type of facility has the advantage of not disrupting the normal flow of a river. This also helps limit flooding from dam reservoirs.