Turn off accessible linear format and redisplay the web page in it's original layout. Hydro Power
Of the total electricity generated in Canada, approximately 60% (350 terawatt hours) is from large-scale hydro power. Current hydro generating capacity is approximately 65,000 megawatts.
Environment Canada considers hydro power to be a renewable and low-emission option for power generation. Hydro power reservoirs, like natural lakes and rivers, emit small amounts of greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change. The release of greenhouse gases results from decomposing vegetation and other natural biological reactions.
When considering the development of new sources of hydro power, due regard is also given to the environmental and social impacts of new plants and transmission lines. For information on electricity from renewable energy sources having low adverse environmental impact relative to conventional large-reservoir hydroelectricity, please go to the Green Power page.
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