Unlike traditional hydroelectric facilities, which flood large areas of land, run-of-river projects do not require a large reservoir. Run-of-river facilities include a head pond (usually 24 hours worth of water flow) that does not rise above the natural high water line of the river. The water is diverted to generate power, then returned directly back into the river or stream. Plutonic Power strives to site our projects on rivers or streams that have waterfalls; these act as natural fish barriers and greatly minimize the potential impacts on fish habitat. Where natural fish barriers are not present, Plutonic Power works with the appropriate government body to minimize the potential impact on fish.

The water is diverted for only as long as is needed to travel down the penstock and pass through the turbine; depending on the length of the penstock it can average between 7 and 10 minutes. The amount of water that may be diverted is determined as part of the environmental assessment process, which specifies the minimum amount of water that must remain in the river at all times. The remaining water is eligible for diversion up to the maximum amount allowed by the water license to generate power, and varies considerably form season to season.  

HomeCorporateInvestorsProjectsConsultationMediaLinks & EventsContactDisclaimer