Kananaskis
The Kananaskis Plant was TransAlta’s second power plant, built in 1913. It was expanded in 1951 and modified again in 1994.
The Kananaskis Plant is one of TransAlta’ s four hydro plants on the Bow Mainstream System, which is part of Alberta’s Bow River Electric System. The plant is a run-of-the-river plant. Instead of storing water in a reservoir, the plant generates power from the river’s natural water flow.
The Kananaskis Plant generates an average of 93,500 megawatt hours each year.
The plant is named after the Kananaskis River. The river was named by Captain John Palliser after he heard a Cree tale about Kin-e-ah-kis, who survived a blow from an axe that should have killed him.
TransAlta’ s hydroelectric plants primarily provide electricity during periods of peak electrical demand and ensure system stability. Their operating flexibility means they can start quickly to introduce hydro power within minutes, balancing out shortages due to unexpected outages, or providing power at times of high demand.
Environmental highlights
Protection of the environment is an important part of our hydro power business, as is responsible water use. We continually work with environmental and community groups to ensure habitats are protected, and that all users needs are heard.
Water license renewals
TransAlta is seeking to renew two water licences for the Kananaskis and Horseshoe Falls hydroelectric facilities issued under the Dominion Water Power Act of Canada. The previous renewal came into force on October 10, 1997. TransAlta is seeking to renew the licences for a 30-year period with no design changes currently being proposed at either facility.
In October 2024 the renewal applications were submitted to Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) and included information such as:
- Facility History
- Facility Description
- Dam Safety
- Land Ownership
- Water Rental Agreements
- Environmental Compliance
- Public Engagement
TransAlta welcomes comments and questions about the Licence Renewal. Please contact the project team directly by email at hydrorenewals@maskwaenv.com or by phone at 1(888) 893-4980
