Canada has an abundance of renewable energy sources with its huge landmass and diverse geography.

Renewable energy accounts for two-thirds of Canada’s power generation largely due to its significant hydropower resources.

Six out of every 10 Canadian homes and businesses are powered by hydropower, according to the government.

Major hydropower projects under construction or completed in recent years include: the 1,100 MW Site C project in British Columbia; the 824 MW Muskrat Falls project in Labrador; the 695 MW Keeyask project in Manitoba; and the 245 MW La Romaine 4 project in Québec.

In January 2019, Canada joined other countries in becoming a member of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

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Blog: Canada’s clean energy priorities need hydropower

For close to 140 years, Canada has been developing its water resources to produce clean, sustainable, reliable and affordable electricity, writes Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Natural Resources, in an article for IHA's 2019 Hydropower Status Report.

Hydropower generates tremendous economic opportunities and provides thousands of jobs in communities across the country – all the while helping to ensure low electricity prices for Canadians.

The industry has also built new partnerships by developing projects with indigenous communities that create new, long-term economic opportunities from coast to coast while helping to reduce reliance on diesel fuel in off-grid, rural and remote communities. Read more.

This country profile is featured in the 2022 Hydropower Status Report. Download the report: hydropower.org/statusreport