Port Hardy Micro-Hydro Project

Type of initiative FCM Green Municipal Fund - Plans, Studies, Pilots
Sector Energy
Project value$180,000
Project Type Feasibility Study
Sub Sector Renewable Energy Generation – Hydro
Grant amount$90,000
Program type GMF
Municipality District of Port Hardy, BC
Status Fully Disbursed
Population 3,902
Project timeline 2006 - 2011
Project number 7197

Description

The District of Port Hardy wishes to determine the feasibility of building a micro-hydro generating facility within the Port Hardy water treatment plant. This study will investigate the possibility of generating hydroelectricity to offset a significant portion of the power required to operate the water treatment plant. An additional benefit would be increased security of the municipal water supply during low flow periods. Currently, the District of Port Hardy purchases electricity from BC Hydro to operate the District’s water treatment plant. If the feasibility study supports the installation of a micro-hydro generation system, the District anticipates a reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 869 tonnes/year. Nitrogen oxide (NOx) and sulphur oxide (SOx) are also anticipated to be reduced by 2.5 tonnes/year and 5.5 tonnes/year, respectively. As well, with every future rate increase from BC Hydro, the value of the savings from avoided purchases of power would also increase.

Applicant

District of Port Hardy, BC