Case Study
Latchford Community Power Project
Project Type: Small Hydro
Applicant: Latchford Community Power Inc.
Grants Awarded: $200,000
Project Size: 1.5 MW
Status: In development
The Latchford waterpower project is located 90 minutes north of North Bay, in the community of Latchford. It consists of 3 low-head turbines that will generate 1.5 MW of clean energy at an existing flood-control dam site. Water Power Group, the project developer is working with local council and residents to replace the dam, to control levels of the Montreal River, and to add a pedestrian bridge and renewable energy project. Latchford is a hamlet of 600 residents.
The project is estimated to cost $7 million dollars and will provide an option to the local community to invest. Todd Masse as the Water Power Group’s Community Engagement Specialist is working at a local level to optimize community engagement in the project and ensure the flow of information. “Working with the host community is critical to a truly sustainable project” said Mark Powell – President and CEO of Water Power Group.
The project will raise approximately $1.9 million in equity financing toward this $7.1 million project. The 3, small run-of-the-river turbines, manufactured in France, were developed in partnership with Natural Resources Canada and designed to rotate slowly so that most species of fish can swim through them. The new dam is constructed of a metal frame and a rubber inflatable structure similar to the Hounds Chute dam installed downstream in 2010 by Ontario Power Generation. Together the dam and turbines will be designed manage water levels effectively, improve local aquaculture and last a long time.
The Latchford Community Power Project is the first project of the Water Power Group and Latchford Community Power Inc.
This project has received funding support from the Ontario Power Authority through the Community Energy Partnerships Program. Such support does not indicate endorsement by the Ontario Power Authority or the Province of Ontario of the contents of this material. The views expressed in the material are the views of the Recipient and do not necessarily reflect those of the Ontario Power Authority or the Province of Ontario.
Latchford Website
http://waterpowergroup.com/sites/latchford/