Robert-Bourassa generating station
One of the largest power plants in Canada
Location
History & Background
Commissioned in 1979, Robert-Bourassa generating station is a hydro power plant located in Canada with an installed capacity of 5.6 GW. It is operated by Hydro-Québec. By installed capacity, it ranks among the top 5 power plants in Canada.
Why It Matters
Robert-Bourassa generating station is a critical piece of Canada's electricity infrastructure, producing enough power for approximately 2.0 million US-equivalent households per year. Hydroelectric facilities are dispatchable: their output can be ramped up and down quickly to match grid demand, which makes them especially valuable for balancing the rest of the system.
Environmental Impact
Robert-Bourassa generating station produces effectively zero operating-stage emissions, displacing roughly 19.6 million tonnes of CO2 per year compared to a coal-equivalent. Large hydroelectric projects do reshape rivers and ecosystems: they trap sediment, alter water temperatures downstream, and can block fish migration. The size of these impacts varies dramatically by site.
Fun Facts
- One of the 10 largest power plants in Canada.
- Produces enough electricity to power roughly 2.0 million US-equivalent households per year at typical capacity factor.
- Has been operating for 47 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much power does Robert-Bourassa generating station produce?▾
Robert-Bourassa generating station has an installed nameplate capacity of 5.6 GW. At typical capacity factors for hydro plants (~42%), this produces enough electricity for approximately 2.0 million US-equivalent households per year.
Where is Robert-Bourassa generating station located?▾
Robert-Bourassa generating station is located in Canada at approximately 53.7833°, -77.4333°.
When was Robert-Bourassa generating station built?▾
Robert-Bourassa generating station was commissioned in 1979.
Who owns Robert-Bourassa generating station?▾
Robert-Bourassa generating station is owned and operated by Hydro-Québec.
About Hydroelectric Power
Hydroelectric power plants use the kinetic energy of flowing or falling water to generate electricity. They are renewable, produce no direct emissions, and can provide reliable baseload power or flexible peaking capacity.
Other Hydroelectric Power Plants in Canada
| Name | Capacity | Owner |
|---|---|---|
| ⚡Churchill Falls | 5.4 GW | Churchill Falls (Labrador) Corporation |
| ⚡La Grande-4 | 2.8 GW | Hydro-Québec |
Related Reading
Data Information
Data Sources
Power plant data is based on the Global Power Plant Database by World Resources Institute, in collaboration with Google, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Enipedia, and the Global Energy Observatory.
Disclaimer
Information found on this page is for informational purposes only. Power plant specifications, ownership, and operational status may have changed since the data was last updated. Please verify critical information with official sources.