Canadian utility Nova Scotia Power has announced it is investing almost $4 million in upgrades to its 49-year old Lequille hydroelectric system on the Allain River in Annapolis Valley.
The Lequille system consists of three storage reservoirs and a three-mile canal that diverts water flow to a concrete intake structure. A wood stave penstock attached to the intake structure conveys water to the Lequille hydroelectric generating facility, which contains a water wheel connected to a 13MW generator. Lequille generates enough electricity each year to power 2,000 to 3,000 homes.
This year, upgrades will be carried out to ensure the hydro facility’s reliability, safety and efficiency. Work taking place includes the refurbishment of the generator, replacement of the hydro system’s pipeline and switchgear, and installation of a new control system and instrumentation. It’s expected that this project will wrap up by the end of the year.
“We continually assess our facilities to determine if and when upgrades are needed to ensure we can safely and reliably deliver service to customers,” said Wes Trimper, Hydro Superintendent with Nova Scotia Power. “This investment in Lequille will support Nova Scotia Power’s efforts to transition to more renewable energy generation.”
Lequille is one of 33 hydroelectric generating stations located along 17 river systems across the province that provide a firm source of renewable energy and are an important part of Nova Scotia Power’s requirement to generate 40% of electricity from renewable sources in 2020. In 2016, Nova Scotia Power reached a record 28 per cent of renewable electricity generation.
