Class Environmental Assessment for Waterpower Projects
The OWA is the proponent for the Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) for Waterpower Projects. The OWA has the lead responsibility for remaining current with best practices and information of direct relevance to waterpower projects in Ontario and providing that information to project proponents. It also requires that the OWA continue to foster and maintain positive and productive relationships with those with an interest in waterpower.
The Class Environmental Assessment for Waterpower sets out a planning process for small to medium scale waterpower projects, such as new facilities less than 200 megawatts in capacity and most expansion projects, as per Ontario Regulation 116/01—Electricity Projects, 2001. New facilities 200 megawatts or larger must undergo a comprehensive environmental assessment.