Hydro Ottawa is a relatively young company, established in the early 21st century through the merger of several entities. However, the history of renewable energy in Ottawa dates back to the late 19th century. The story of Hydro Ottawa is closely tied to Thomas Ahearn, who built the first hydroelectric power plant in the city. Learn more with Ottawa One.
The Foundation of Hydroelectric Power in Ottawa
Ottawa’s first hydroelectric plant was constructed at Chaudière Falls under the initiative of Thomas Ahearn. The city’s first electricity was generated at Young’s Mill. Within a few years, electricity was introduced to the House of Commons and the Canadian Senate. Eventually, the hydroelectric plant enabled the electrification of the entire capital. By the early 1900s, electricity became widely accessible across Ottawa.
Hydro Ottawa, now a leader in providing electricity to the capital’s residents, was officially established in the 2000s. The company was formed by merging five local power distribution companies. Today, Hydro Ottawa serves over 1,000 square kilometres in Ontario.
Hydro Ottawa is the largest electricity provider in the city, catering to residential homes, businesses, and commercial enterprises. Known for its innovative approach, the company offers a range of services and programs that help customers conserve energy—a significant advantage for Ottawa residents choosing an electricity supplier.
Innovative Energy Solutions in Ottawa
Beyond hydroelectric facilities, Hydro Ottawa has embraced innovative methods of energy production. For instance, the company launched a project to convert landfill gas into energy. Additionally, in 2017, Hydro Ottawa constructed a new underground hydroelectric station with a capacity of 29 megawatts. This facility significantly increased the electricity supply across the province, providing renewable energy to power over 20,000 homes annually in Ottawa.
Since the underground plant’s opening, electricity supply in Ottawa has grown by more than 100 megawatts—a nearly 500% increase from previous production levels. The new facility also reduced carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 115,000 tonnes annually.
In 2020, Hydro Ottawa introduced new underground electricity delivery technologies. During the reconstruction of Elgin Street, the company installed modern overhead transformers powered by underground systems, eliminating outdated utility poles and wires.
Thanks to rapid growth and ongoing modernization, Hydro Ottawa became the first hydroelectric company in Canada to achieve the “ISO 55001:2014” certification in 2020. This milestone recognized the company’s excellence in implementing innovative practices in utility services.
Responding to Natural Disasters
In 2018, a devastating tornado struck Ottawa, severely damaging parts of the city, including its electrical grid. Nearly 200,000 residents lost power. Hydro Ottawa’s crews worked tirelessly for six months to repair the damage and restore electricity to the affected homes.
Hydro Ottawa’s dedication to innovation and resilience has cemented its reputation as a leader in providing sustainable and reliable electricity to the capital.