Web site preparations have began for greater than $200 million in upgrades on the 118-year-old producing station
KAKABEKA FALLS — The redevelopment of 1 of the oldest hydro-electric producing stations in Ontario will broaden its capability and prolong its life expectancy by 90 years.
Some website preparations have already been made at Kakabeka Falls, the place Ontario Energy Era is embarking on an entire overhaul of the 118-year-old energy plant, the second-oldest of OPG’s hydro stations.
“Building will start within the spring. They’re attempting to get as a lot of the positioning prep accomplished earlier than winter units in, after which they’re going to be able to go,” spokesperson Neal Kelly stated Wednesday.
The work, costing over $200 million, consists of the development of an extension to the prevailing powerhouse to accommodate two trendy turbine-generating items to switch 4 present items, and the substitute of a surge tank that is used to handle abrupt modifications in water stress.
The outdated producing items and ancillary gear can be faraway from the present powerhouse, and 4 present penstocks, that convey water to the turbines from the Kam River above Kakabeka Falls, can be taken out and changed with two new ones.
Kelly stated the unique powerhouse will not be torn down however will stay as an area heritage constructing to accommodate gear.
The Kakabeka Falls Producing Station, which at the moment produces as much as 24.4 megawatts of electrical energy – sufficient to energy 25,000 properties – will see its capability elevated by 13 per cent when the venture is completed in 2027.
Initially constructed by the Kaministiquia Energy Firm in 1906 to help the Lakehead-area’s burgeoning flour-milling industries, the plant began with two items earlier than shortly increasing.
A 3rd unit was added in 1911, and a fourth unit three years later.
Ontario Hydro, the predecessor to OPG, bought the station in 1949.
“This necessary venture will assist preserve and construct on the legacy of Kakabeka Falls GS, which has offered clear energy for Ontario for greater than a century,” stated Paul Seguin, OPG’s senior vice-president of renewable technology.
“With trendy gear and elevated producing capability, the redeveloped station will assist OPG and Ontario meet net-zero targets whereas supporting province-wide electrification.”
Chook Building has a $100 million contract for its a part of the work which is being undertaken in a 50/50 three way partnership.
OPG has stated the venture may even generate financial advantages for native Indigenous communities, particularly for Fort William First Nation, in help of its Reconciliation Motion Plan.
OPG additionally operates 10 different hydro stations throughout Northwestern Ontario.
