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Calabogie Generating Station Redevelopment Project

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The Calabogie Generating Station has been an essential part of Ontario Power Generation's (OPG) energy infrastructure since 1917.

In September 2018, the station was nearing the end of its life when a direct tornado hit rendered it inoperable. The unexpected disruption threatened to end Calabogie’s century-long legacy of producing renewable, low-cost electricity. It was a moment that demanded decisive action. Recognizing the growing demand for green energy, OPG embarked on a mission to revitalize the Calabogie Generation Station.

AtkinsRéalis, in a joint venture with M. Sullivan and Son, lead the redevelopment project. Our team's overarching goal was to secure a sustainable source of clean, renewable energy for Ontario that would be good for the next 100 years. The mandate was clear: build a new hydroelectric facility to replace the old one, maximize its energy output while adhering to the existing Water Management Plan, and minimize adverse environmental impacts.
 
Rising to the challenge, our project team devised a comprehensive strategy focused on enhancing the station's efficiency and output. Through meticulous planning and innovative engineering solutions, we doubled the station's power output—from approximately 5 MW to an impressive 10.7 MW. We achieved this substantially higher energy production by increasing the flow of water through the approach and tailrace channels, which raised the annual green energy production from 22 GWh/yr to 46.5 GWh/yr.
 
The construction team’s involvement in the early design stages helped project members explore alternative designs and identify cost-saving opportunities. Our phased project development approach allowed the incorporation of innovative ideas while prioritizing overall project benefits. Emphasizing stakeholder consultation and collaboration ensured everyone’s interests were aligned with the project's objectives.
 
Crucially, the project team remained committed to engaging with Indigenous communities throughout each phase. Staff fostered collaboration and mutual respect by consulting with and involving the Algonquins of Ontario, the Williams Treaties First Nations, and the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation. We undertook environmental activities and explored employment opportunities in partnership with these communities, ensuring their active participation and benefiting the broader community.
 
The impact of the Calabogie Generating Station redevelopment extends well beyond its impressive technical achievements. Aligning with broader environmental goals, its doubled output of clean, renewable power means the project contributes significantly to reducing direct carbon emissions. Furthermore, the project boosted the local economy by creating construction jobs and supporting local businesses and will continue generating long-term employment opportunities in operations.

 

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The Calabogie Generation Station Redevelopment Project stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation and the responsible stewardship of resources. By doubling energy production while adhering to strict environmental standards, the project exceeded its objectives.
 
We are proud that its lasting positive legacy—for both the environment and the community it serves—can continue for the next 100 years.
 
AtkinsRéalis won ACEC-Ontario’s 2024 “Carbon Impact Award”, which celebrates those who are leading the charge to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate environmental impacts.
 
“As hydropower experts, we’ve rehabilitated and upgraded several hydroelectric developments. We work side-by-side with clients, regulatory agencies and local stakeholders to integrate our solutions with the surrounding natural environments, decrease operational risk and increase project viability.” - Vinod Batta, Market Lead, Power & Renewable.
The Calabogie Generation Station Redevelopment Project stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation and the responsible stewardship of resources. By doubling energy production while adhering to strict environmental standards, the project exceeded its objectives.
 
We are proud that its lasting positive legacy—for both the environment and the community it serves—can continue for the next 100 years.
 
AtkinsRéalis won ACEC-Ontario’s 2024 “Carbon Impact Award”, which celebrates those who are leading the charge to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate environmental impacts.
 
“As hydropower experts, we’ve rehabilitated and upgraded several hydroelectric developments. We work side-by-side with clients, regulatory agencies and local stakeholders to integrate our solutions with the surrounding natural environments, decrease operational risk and increase project viability.” - Vinod Batta, Market Lead, Power & Renewable.
11 megawatts
Total generation capacity
175
Construction-related employees
10,000
Homes powered with clean renewable hydroelectricity

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