Hydroelectric power

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Timeless, renewable, powerful

Hydroelectric power, or water power, is a timeless, renewable resource that has fuelled Ontario's economic growth since the beginning of the 20th century. Today, it accounts for more than one-third of Ontario Power Generation's (OPG's) electricity production.

See why clean hydroelectric power is an important part of OPG’s energy mix for Ontario.

Hydroelectric fleet in Ontario

7,624
MW in-service generating capacity (June 30, 2024)

66
stations

239
dams on 24 river systems

34
terawatt hours of power produced in 2023

Diving into hydroelectricity

Hydroelectric power is such a popular renewable energy source because it is a clean, reliable, and low-cost way to produce the energy Ontario needs.

Hydro generation relies on water, a renewable resource that OPG shares with Indigenous communities as well as local governments, industry and environmental groups, and recreational users.

Hydroelectric power is the lowest-cost energy source. OPG continues to look for development opportunities like the Peter Sutherland Sr. Generating Station built with partners Taykwa Tagamou Nation or to upgrade or expand existing stations like the Calabogie project.

Low water conditions at the tailrace of Lower Sturgeon hydroelectric generating station.

Hydroelectric Water Portal

Get up-to-the-hour water level info on the 66 hydroelectric stations and 239 dams OPG operates on 24 river systems.

Exploring Ontario's hydro opportunities

A new report identifies areas of high generation potential, and provides initial estimates on developing this potential.

How does hydro power work?

Our hydroelectric stations in Ontario

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